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'The Shepherd King 



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The Shepherd King" 

TO BE PRODUCED BY WRIGHT LORIMER AT THE NEW YORK THEATRE 

H IRomantic Drama 

IN FOUR ACTS AND FIVE SCENES 

BY 

ARNOLD REEVES 

/Nl< 

WRIGHT LORIMER 



Copyright by Arnold Reeves and Wright Lorimer, 1903 



The authors of this play beg to acknowledge their indebtedness 
to Little, Brown & Co., ow?iersoi the copyright of "The Throne 
of David," for permission to use the incident of the arrow, which 
appeals in the second act of The Shepherd King. 



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LIBRARY of CONGRESS 
Two Copies Received 

JAN 21 1904 

Copyright Entry 
COPY 8 



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"THE SHEPHERD KING" 

A Romantic Drama in Four Acts and Five Scenes 

By 

Arnold Reeves and Wright Lorimer 

Cast of Characters 

Saul King of Israel 

Jonathan His Son 

Doeg An Edomite 

Omar His Brother 

Jesse Father of David 

Abinadab \ 

yy \ l } David's Elder Brothers 



Ozem 

Ahimelech A Priest 

Goliath A Giant 

MkhaL '. '. '. V. ' V. V. '. '. V," [ ' ' * " Saul ' S Dau S hters 

Mother of David 

Adora A Bondmaid 

Witch of Endor 

AND 

DAVID, The Shepherd Boy, who afterward becomes King 
Captain Tamar, High Priest, Armor-Bearer, Heralds, 
Soldiers, Singers, Dancing Girls, Nubians and Slaves 



SYNOPSIS 

Act First. Jesse's home — Bethlehem. 
Act Second. Saul's camp — Vale of Elah. 
Act Third. Saul's palace — Gibeah. 
Act Fourth. Scene i. Cave of Witch of Endor. 
Scene 2. Court, adjoining the Palace. 



CHARACTERS USED IN THE FIRST ACT. 



Jesse Father of David 

Ahimelech A Priest 

Jonathan Saul's Son 

Prince Phalti A Nobleman 

Ozem David's Brother 

Mother : Of David 

Michal Saul's Younger Daughter 

Adora Bondmaid 

AND 
David The "Shepherd Boy" 

Scene: Jesse's Home in Bethlehem. 



THE SHEPHERD KING 



ACT FIRST. 

Home of Jesse, at Bethlehem. House on the r.. barn 
L. Back drop represents hilly-farm lands. A rustic seat 
is r. c. Table and chairs l. Jesse's weaver's loom r. 2. 
Implements scattered to dress stage. Time: Late after- 
noon changing to sunset. 

Jesse and Adora discovered working at loom. 

Jesse. 
There, that will do, Adora; thou. hast worked long and 
must be tired. Rest thyself. 

Adora. 
Nay, I am not tired, master Jesse. 

Jesse. 
Why dost thou persist in calling me master, child? 
This is thy home; thou hast been faithful; we hold thee 
as one of ourselves. 

Adora. 

Thou hast been kind to an orphan. I love all thy house, 
good master. 

Jesse. 

So we would have thee. Thou art our bond-woman 
bv the law, but thy bonds are not fetters. 



8 "The Shepherd King" 

Mother (Of David). 
(Enters from house.) Hast not finished thy work, 
Jesse? 

Jesse. 
Aye, for the day, mother. 

Mother. 
Adora, wilt go to the well? (X'ing up and looking off 

L.) 

Jesse. 
(To Adora.) Gather up the cloth, and take it with thee 
to the house, Adora. 

Adora. 
(Gathers up the work, starts to exit in house.) 









Jesse. 


Fc 


>r whom art thou looking, mother? 








Mother. 


For David. 












Jesse. 


Is 


it not yet 


early? 





Adora. 
(At door.) True, only when the sun hath reached the 
summit of the high hill, doth David gather his sheep about 
him, to return home. (Exit.) 

Jesse. 
The little maiden is right, mother (Ozem enters front 
L.). Ah, Ozem, hast finished thy day's labor? 

Ozem. 
Yes, father; the wheat is all stacked. 

Adora. 
(Enters from house with vessel to get water. X's up 
to c. — is met by Ozem.) 



"The Shepherd King" 9 

OZEM. 

Thou art going to the. well ; I will go with thee, Adora. 

Adora. 

Thou art kind. (They exit, c. to r.) 

Jesse. 
Dost thou see, mother, it is Adora that brings our son 
home so promptly. 

Mother. 
Adora is a worthy child. Ozem might seek long and 
not find her equal. 

Jesse. 
True, mother, I would welcome her as a daughter-in- 
law. 

Mother. 
Soon we shall be left alone, dear husband. Our three 
eldest sons serve the King — two others live apart from 
us. Now, Ozem will be taking a wife. David alone, re- 
mains. 

Jesse. 
Thy favorite,- mother. 

Mother. 

Not that I love the others less, Jesse. But a mother's 
love is always stronger for her youngest. 

Jesse. - 
And in David, the Lord hath blessed us. Well named 
"David," The beloved. Come, mother, I will assist thee 
with the supper (putting arm about her). Thou hast 
been wife and companion for nigh two score years and 
ten, years that thy love hath made to seem like a few days. 
Contentment hath been ours. Our few sorrows have but 



io "The Shepherd King" 

mellowed our love, which spreads itself over the children 
that have blessed us. Come, dear {exits in house) ; come. 

(Adora and Ozem enter.) 

Adora. 
Nay, Ozem ; I must not listen to thee. 

Ozem. 

Let me plead with thee, Adora. Thou dost not know 
how much I love thee. 

Adora. 
I do know, Ozem ; thou hast always been kind. 

Ozem. 
Why, then, wilt thou not let me speak? 

Adora. 
No, Ozem; NO! 

Ozem. 
I want thee for my wife. 

Adora. 
That cannot be. I am but a bond-woman to thy father. 

Ozem. 
That doth make no difference ; my mother and father 
love thee, and would be glad to have thee for their 
daughter. 

Adora. 

Ozem, I love thee as a brother. Thou hast always been 
kind and thoughtful. Do not think me ungrateful only 
I do not feel for thee the love I should, to become thy 
wife. 

Ozem. 

That will come later, Adora. 



"The Shepherd King" n 

Adora. 
Nay, Ozem ; speak no more of love to me. I cannot 
bear it. 

Ozem. 
Dost thon love another? 

Adora. 
(Slight catch of breath — starts to exit.) 

Ozem. 
Stay ; answer me ! 

Adora. 
Nay, Ozem ; no other hath ever spoken words of love 
to me — I — I (Bursts into tears.) 

Ozem. 
Tears ! Adora 

Adora. 
It is nothing — I — I am foolish, that is all. 

Mother. 
(Calls from house.) Adora! Adora! 

Adora. 
There, thy mother is calling. (Picks up water-bottle; 
starts to go — turns.) Ozem, forgive me if I seem crueL 

Ozem. 
Say I may hope? 

Adqra. 
Nay, Ozem ; I cannot. 

Ozem. 
(Turns surlily azvay.) 

Adora. 

(Git'cs slight sigh; starts for house.) 



12 "The Shepherd King" 

Jesse. 
(Enters and meets her at door-way.) Didst lose thy 
way? I fear Ozem was more of a hindrance than help 
to thee. 

Adora. 
(Raises her head to speak.) 

Jesse. 
(Glances at her, then at Ozem; hand on her head.) 
Why, thy face is full of sorrow, child ; I did not mean to 
chide thee. There! (Gently pushes her in house.) 

Ozem. 
(Ozem is standing gloomily over l.) 

Jesse. 
Ozem, hast thou quarreled with Adora? 

Ozem. 
Nay, father. 

Jesse. 
Her face was full of grief. 

Ozem. 
I asked her to be my wife, and — and — she would not 
listen to me. 

Jesse. 
Thou may'st have been too hasty. Love is a delicate 
flower; the seed must fall on favored soil; fostered with 
care and kindness, it gathers strength. It withers if 
plucked before the buds have spread. Have patience, my 
son. 

Ozem. 
Tis not that I have been forward, father. Adora has 
known my feelings many days. 



"The Shepherd King" 13 

Jesse. 
And would not heed thy suit ? 

Ozem. 
She said that she could never be my wife. 

Jesse. 
Because she did not love thee? 

Ozem. 
Yes; I fear she loves another. (X'ing up c.) 

Jesse. 
Nay, that cannot be. None other hath shown her at- 
tention ; of that I am sure. I will speak with her. 

Ozem. 

It will be useless. (Looking off l.) 

Jesse. 
I hope not; the maiden would be a credit to thee. 
Ahimelech ! Go thou and greet him. 

Ozem. 
(Exits c. l.) 

Jesse. 
(Calls in house.) Mother ! 

Mother. 
{Enters.) 

Jesse. 
The holy-man, Ahimelech, is coming. (X'ing l.) 

Mother. 
He is probably journeying from Saul's camp. 
(Enter from c. l. Ozem and Ahimelech. Ozem re- 
tires up back. Mother exits in house.) 



14 "The Shepherd King" 

Ahimelech. 

Peace be to thee and thy household, Jesse. 

Jesse. 
And to thee. How fares it with our king? 

Ahimelech. 
Badly. The spirit of evil rests upon him. The army 
hath grown discontented. There is no hope for Israel 
under Saul's reign. 

Jesse. 
And are we then to fall under the power of our ancient 
enemy, the Philistines ? 

Ahimelech. 
Fear not, Jehovah hath declared through our holy 
prophet, Samuel, that Saul's crown shall be taken from 
him, and that another will lead Israel to victory. 

Jesse. 
Another will reign — Prince Jonathan? 

Ahimelech. 
I would it might be so. Prince Jonathan is a valiant 
man — beloved by the people, and while .the gloom hath 
o'ershadowed the mind of Saul, Jonathan's hand hath 
guided the King's sceptre. But none of Saul's blood 
shall ever again reign over Israel. Another hath been 
chosen, and but awaits the sign to ascend the throne. 

Mother. 
(Enters from house. ) 

Jesse. 
And this other is? 

Ahimelech. 
No one knows, except the prophet, Samuel, who says 
he is a Bethlehemite, and of humble parentage. 



"The Shepherd King" 15 

Mother. 
Bring you any news of our sons? (To Ahimelech.) 

Ahimelech. 
Thou hast sons with Saul? (To Mother.) 

Jesse. 
Our three eldest, Eliah, Abinadab and Shammah. 

Ahimelech. 
The Lord hath blessed thee, Jesse. 

Mother. 
(To Ahimelech.) If thou wilt enter and refresh thy- 
self, the table is spread. 

Ahimelech. 
Peace to thy house. (Bus. and exits in house, led by 
servants. Mother about to follow.) 

David. 
(Is heard singing in the distance.) 

Mother. 
Tis David! (Aside.) 

Adora. 
(Enters from back of house. Goes to c. l. Looks off 

L) x 

Jesse. 
Mother, thy son, David, is coming. (To Adora.) Thou 
wert right, Adora; the sun's shadow is creeping down 
the hill, and David comes. 

Mother. 
And hath he his flock with him? 

Jesse. 
Aye, and following him as men follow their King. 



1 6 "The Shepherd King" 

Adora. 

They all know and love him, good master. 

Ozem. 
Thy admiration couldn't be greater were he indeed a 
King. 

Jesse. 
Ozem, if thou canst not speak with gentleness, seal thy 
lips. 

David. 
(Song increases.) 

Mother. 
Thou knowest, Ozem, our admiration is no greater for 
David than 'tis for thee. 

David. 
(Is seen leading sheep dozen run from l. When .c, 
stops. Has wounded lamb on his shoulder.) 

Jesse. 
Thou seest, David, that we were expecting thee. 

David. 
Aye, father; a welcome home is what I am always as- 
sured of. (X'ing to Mother. Throws arms about her 
neck, kisses her.) There, little mother, is my welcome 
to thee. (To Ozem.) Brother, thou art home before me. 

Adora. 

(Conies to his r. Takes crook from Jiis hand.) David, 
there's blood on thy arm ! 

Jesse. , 

(Dropping down stage.) What sayst thou? ( 

Mother. (Together. 



Thou art hurt, ray son ? 



< 



"The Shepherd King" 17 

David. 
(Laughs.) Nay, 'tis nothing. Thy eyes are sharp. 
Aclora ; a scratch, that is all. But 'tis more with this lit- 
tle fellow, here. Bring me a basin of warm water and 
some old linen, Adora, for I fear his leg is broken. (X J s 
to bench r. ) 

Adora. 
(Exits in house.) 

Jesse. 
(X'ing to Ozem.) Lend thy aid, Ozem, and we will 
return this loom to the barn. (They do so.) 

Mother. 
How did it happen, David? (Just back of David.) 

Adora. 

(Returns with basin and some linen strips for bandage. 
Kneels at his r. ; assists him, handing the linen, etc., her 
attention concentrated upon David.) 

David. 
I will tell thee : This lamb that the winter storms made 
motherless, has been my special pet. I have been his sole 
parent. I call him Boaz. I have a name for each of my 
flock, is it not so, Adora? (She nods.) That small piece, 
Adora (taking a strip of linen from her). To-day in his 
gambols he grew bold, and ran away. I called to him, but 
he heeded not. There! (Fixing business.) I gave chase, 
but he thought it was play and- scampered all the faster 
from me. I did my best to overtake him, but he soon 
reached the break of the hill. He realized his danger, and 
braced himself, but the loose earth gave way and over 

he went Now to make this fast (tying bandage) 

I feared that he was killed. I descended after him. As 
I neared the bottom, a rock that I was clinging to, gave. 



1 8 -The Shepherd King" 

That is how I came by the scratch. I found Boaz, and 
brought him up. And now that we have patched him, he 
will soon be well, and wiser than ever. There! Now, 
Adora, if thou wilt feed him a little warm milk. {Places 
Iamb in Adora 's anus.) 

Adora. 
(Starts to exit in house.) 



Simultaneous. 



Ahimelech. 

(Enters from house.) 

Jesse. 
(Enters from barn.) 

Mother. 

(To Ahim.) Oh, good sir; your pardon. I have al- 
lowed myself to forget hospitality. 

Ahimelech. 
(Coming c.) Nay, not so. Thy hospitality is bountiful. 
I am refreshed. This is thy son ? 

Positions: Ahem., c; Mother, r. 2; David, r. of c. ; 
Jesse, l. 

Mother. 
Aye, good sir ; my son, David. 

David. 

( Kneels before Ahim.) 

Ahimelech. 
(Blessing David.) May the Lord bless thee, my son, 
and make thee an honor to thy parents. 

David. 
I thank thee. 



"The Shepherd King" 19 

Ahimelech. 
Thy name is not a stranger to me, David. From many 
have I heard of thy gift of song, and of thy power upon 
the harp. Ave, even in our school of the prophets, hath 
thy name been mentioned. 

Jesse. 
'Tis an honor, son. (To Ahem.) When the holy 
prophet, Samuel, journeyed through Bethlehem, he did 
remark and show special favor to our son for his ability. 

David. 
Would that I could turn it to benefit our nation. 

Ahimelech. 
When Jehovah bestows great gifts or virtues upon a 
man, 'tis for a purpose. Keep thy heart clean, my son; 
thy day will come. 

Mother. 
Thou art not thinking of leaving us, David? 

David. 
Leaving thee, mother; why dost thou think that? 

Jesse. 
Thy words, son, have aroused fear in thy mother, that 
thou hast grown discontented with thy shepherd life. 

David. 
Banish thy fear, dear mother — if my duty lies upon the 
hills to watch and care for our flocks — cheerfully will I do 
my work, with no thought of discontent. 

Ahimelech. 
Thou need'st not fear for thy son, good mother. He 
speaks manfully and from the heart. It is from such as he 
that the future salvation of our nation is to come. Israel 



20 "The Shepherd King" 

to-day is stagnant, the blood that rules us is corrupt. Of 
all the royal court Jonathan alone retains the confidence 
and admiration of the people. 

David. 
Prince Jonathan ! Our noble prince. How I have 
gloried in his deeds ! 

Ahimelech. 
And well thou may'st, as should all the youths of Israel. 
(Starts to go.) But I must leave thee. Farewell. 

Jesse. 
Wilt thou not abide the night and rest thyself? 

Ahimelech. 
Nay, I am a bearer of messages from the camp of Saul 
to the prophet Samuel, and must continue my journey. 

Jesse. 
I will accompany thee to the road. (Exeunts to L.) 

(As Ahimelech and Jesse exit, David X's 
to seat r., sits with hands folded behind his 
head. Mother X's up and zvatches Ahim- 
elech and Jesse off. Adora comes to door. 
Picture for second. Mother comes behind 
David, kisses him on brow. Adora X's up 
.to l. c.j looking off, later watches David. 

Mother. 
(After bus.) Of what art thou thinking, my son? 

David. 
Picture thoughts, mother. 

Mother. 
Thoughts that would take thee from me, David ? 



"The Shepherd King" 21 

David. 
Nay, mother, only the thoughts that, come from the 
words of the priest. I was thinking that beyond those 
hills, where I so peacefully tend my sheep, lies the world 
of action. 

Mother. 
And woulds't thou prefer it to thy shepherd life? 

David. 
I would that I could serve Israel, mother. But I am 
thy youngest son ; my duty is here ; I do not forget that, 
mother, so we will banish dreams and come to realities — 
I am hungry ! 

Mother. 
Oh, son, I had forgotten ; thou hast not had supper. I 
will go and make ready for thee. (Exits in house.) 

David. 

(After seeing Mother off — Sol.) Dear mother, 
how little she knows the strength of my desire to mingle 
with the life beyond the hills — to be with those who are 
fighting for the freedom of Israel. The glory of it ! " How 
my senses tingle at the thought. I must drive those pic- 
tures from my mind, else they will grow, and I shall 
neglect my duty (makes movement with l. arm; winces; 
slight exclamation ; rolls up sleeves, shows scar.) I had 
forgotten ! 

Adora. 

( Who has been closely watching David from the back, 
l. ; comes down at his exclamation.) David! 

David. 
Adora, art thou there? 

Adora. 
Thv arm ! 



22 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
'Tis nothing. How long hast thou been here ? 

Adora. 
I saw the good priest depart, I saw thy mother leave 

thee, and, David 

David. 
Yes, Adora ? 

Adora. 
I heard thy words. Thou art unhappy. Thy heart is 
no longer with thy sheep. 

Ozem. • 
(Enters from bam; remains unnoticed, watching 
them.) 

David. 
Nay, Adora, 'tis not that I love my sheep the less, or 
would neglect my duty, but I love my nation. Gladly 
would I give my life to serve her. 



Adora. 

I know, David. When thou went on the hill tending thy 
flock I have watched thee. I knew that thy heart was 
elsewhere. 

David. 

Why, child, never before have I spoken my thought 
aloud. 

Adora. 

Not in words, David ; but from thy music did I learn 
thy secret. When thy sheep were gathered about thee 
thou wouldst play a simple, gentle tune, that would har- 
monize with the quiet of the hills. Then as thy eyes 
would take on a deeper look ; with an unconscious com- 
mand thy music would change. Peace no longer reigned, 
'twas the turmoil of strife. Thv flock, that a moment 



"The Shepherd King" 23 

before grazed with lazy indifference, would lift their 
heads. In their eves would come the look of fear. Thy 
face would become stern and resolved. Then I knew thy 
heart was afar from thy pasture, and in thy dreams thou 
wert leading men to victory. 

David. 
Thou hast learned what I thought had only been whis- 
pered upon my harp. 

Adora. 
Some day thou wilt go, David, and fulfil thy heart's 
desire. 

David. 
Thinkest thou so ? 

Adora. 
I pray that it will be ! 

Da\ id. 
I must housel my sheep for the night. (Rises, X's in 
front of Adora. Sees Ozem.) Ah, brother, I did not 
see thee before ; wilt thou drive the sheep into the fold ? 

Ozem. 

I have finished my labor. 

David. 
(X's to Ozem, places his arm about him.) Why dost 
thou speak so harshly ? Have I done aught to wound thy 
feelings ? 

Ozem'. 
(Turns azvay from him.) 

David. 

I did not mean that thou shouldst do my work, brother ; 
I was wrong to ask it. (Starts to c. To Adora.) If 
mother calls tell her I will soon return. {Exits.) 



24 "The Shepherd King" 

(As David exits, Adora goes up to c. Look- 
ing after him, Ozem regards her for a sec- 
ond, then approaches her.) 

Ozem. 
Now I know thy secret ! 

Adora. 
(Turning.) Ozem! 

Ozem. 
I know why thou wilt not listen to me. Tis because 
of him! (Pointing off.) Thou can'st not deny it; I saw 
thy looks ! 

Adora. 
What looks? 

Ozem. 
I saw thee as thou did'st kneel at his feet. I saw the 
color mount thy cheeks. I saw thy eyes light at his words. 
Thou lovest David ! 

Adora. 
Thou art mad to speak so! 

Ozem. 
'Tis the truth ! I offered thee honorable love, offered 
to make thee my wife. Thou would'st not listen to me, 
but thou did'st hang on his words. Thou would'st make 
thyself his wanton. 

Adora. 
No more, Ozem ! In thy jealous rage thou hast 
wronged, insulted me. 



Ozem, 



Thou lov'st David 



Adora. 
I do! With a love that thou can'st not understand. 
'Tis a love that ennobles not degrades, as thou say'st. 



"The Shepherd King" 25 

OZEM. 

Hath he returned thy passion? 

Adora. 
He hath never dreamed that it existed. Thou hast 
probed my secret. I do not deny the truth. I told thee 
that I could never be thy wife. 

Ozem. 
Tis David that hath robbed me of thy love, I could 
hate him. (X'iug r.) 

Adora. 
(Catching him by the arm.) Ozem! Unsay those 
wicked words. He is thy brother. 

Ozem. 
He hath thy love! 

Adora. 
Thou must not bear bitterness against him ; 'tis I that 
am to blame. He hath never spoken love to me. I have 
told thee all, Ozem. I know that thy affection for me will 
seal thy lips and thou wilt hold as sacred all I have said. 

Ozem. 
If thou wilt get over thy madness. 

Adora. 
I will try. 

Ozem. 
Then wilt thou come to me?_ 

Adora. 
Xow that thou knowest all, dost thou still desire me? 

Ozem. 
More than ever. If thou wilt overcome thy folly, I 
know that thou will make a loval wife. 



26 "The Shepherd King" 

Adora. 
Thou art generous, Ozem. I will try and think of thee 
and pray to become worthy. 

Ozem. 
Bless thee, Adora. (Starts to embrace her.) 

Adora. 

No, no ; not yet, Ozem ! Thou must give me time. 

Ozem. 
I will be patient and wait till thou dost come to me. 
{Going to c. r.) Thou hast given me hope. (Exits.) 

Mother. 
(Enters.) Where is David? 

Adora. 
He hath gone to shelter his flock for the night. 

Jesse. 
(Enters in haste. Looking r.) Mother, mother, pre- 
pare thyself. The noble Prince Jonathan and the Princess 
Michal are coming. 

Mother. 
Prince Jonathan and his sister — coming here? 

Jesse. 
Aye, and are close at hand. I ran ahead to tell thee. I 
met them on the road. 

Mother. 
Strange ; what can it mean ? Adora, prepare some 
wine. 

Jonathan. 
(Enter from steps with Michal and servants. Body- 
guard in the rear.) This is thy house, Jesse? 



"The Shepherd King" 27 

Jesse. 
(Adora appears at door.) Ave, my Lord Jonathan, 
wilt thou enter? 

Jonathan. 
(c. ) Thanks, good father; we will remain in the open. 
We must return as soon as I have seen thy son, David. 

Phalti. 
Princess, allow me to conduct thee to a place of rest. 
(Leads her to seat l.) 

MlCHAL. 

Noble Phalti, thou art ever considerate. (They con- 
verse. ) 

Jesse. 

(Who has X'd to Mother.) Thou sayest that he hath 
gone to the sheepcote ? 

Mother. 

Aye, but will be back in a few minutes. 

Jesse. 
(To Jonathan.) My Lord, my son hath gone to at- 
tend his sheep for the night. I will send for him. 
(Starts.) 

Jonathan. 
Nay, we will wait. Thy good wife says that he will 
soon return. (Turns to Michal and Phalti. ) 

Mother. 
Why do they desire to see our son ? 

Jesse. 
The Prince hath heard of his playing, and would have 
him perform before the King. 



28 "The Shepherd King" 

Mother. 
Our David to play before the King? 

Jesse. 
Ave! (Converse together.) 

Phalti. 

Hast thou ever seen this paragon? 

Jonathan. 
Nay, but from many have I heard of his playing. 

Michal. 
I am curious to see this shepherd boy, who is to rival 
our trained musicians. 

Jonathan. 
Thou must remember, Michal, our father, the King, 
was of humble station. 

David. 

(Heard outside laughing.) 

Jesse. 
(X's up. Looks off l.) Our son David is coming. 

Phalti. 
(At the laughing has X'd up.) Aye, and a comely lad, 
too. 

David. 
(Comes running on with a carrier-pigeon in Jiis hand. 
Docs not notice the group on l.) Ah, my dear mother, 
here is one of our doves returned with a message 

Jesse. 
My son. Prince Jonathan would speak with thee. (In- 
dicating Prince.) 






"The Shepherd King" 29 

David. 
(Turning, seeing them, slightly abashed.) Prince 
Jonathan ! Oh ! I crave pardon, my Lord. 

Michal. 
(To Phalti.) Is he not a handsome lad? 

Jonathan. 
Rise, David. I have come to thee with a command. 

David. 
A command to me ! 

Jonathan. 
Aye, art thou not David, the player of the hills — such 
we have heard thee called. 

Michal. 
(To Phalti.) What beautiful hair. (X'ing to David.) 
Thy pardon, brother. (To David.) Wilt thou let me 
look at thy dove? 

David. 
(Handing her the dove.) 'Tis a carrier-dove from my 
brother Nethaneel, who resides to the north, of the 
Hebron. At the first of the moon he doth send a message 
to our mother. 

Michal. 
The poor little thing. (X'ing to Phalti, petting 
dove.) 

Jonathan. 
(To David.) Would' st thou change thy shepherd life 
to serve the King? 

David. 
I would give my life to serve him — to serve Israel. 

Michal. 
(To Phalti.) What fire in his eyes. 



So "The Shepherd King" 

Mother. 

{Half weeping.) Oh, pardon me, my Lord, David is 
my youngest. I cannot bear the thought of his being 
exposed to the dangers of war. (Breaking down.) 

David. 
{Goes to her; places her in chair r.) 

Jesse. 
My Lord, we have given Israel our three eldest sons. 
Thev serve in the King's bodyguard. 

Jonathan. 
(c.) I have allowed myself to be misunderstood. (To 
Mother.) Good mother, thou need'st not fear for thy 
son. I would have him serve the King with his harp. 

Phalti. 
Such a command means glory to the musician. 

Michal. 
(X'ing over to David and handing back the dove.) 
Thou would'st be the envy of them all. (Returning, is 
met by Phalti.) 

Phalti. 
(Aside to Michal.) Indeed he would, especially by 
me, if thy interest in him increaseth. 

Adora. 
(At sign from David, comes to David, takes the bird 
from him and X's around back of the stage and exits 
barn L.) 

David. 
I fear that reports have overrated my abilities. The 
melodies that I play are the traditional songs of our shep- 
herds, and such as come to me when alone upon the hills. 



"The Shepherd King" 31 

I fear that my playing would not compare with that of 
the skilled musicians or appeal to the ear of the King. 

Phalti. 
(To Michal.) How modest. 

Michal. 
'Tis most commendable. 

Jonathan. 
'Tis simple music that I most desire. Our father, the 
King, hath been troubled with a malady that has harried 
his physicians. Medicine has no power to reach afflic- 
tions of the mind. Advised by travelers of the East, 
musicians were brought before him. For a time their 
efforts seemed to dispel his gloom, but soon their power 
diminished. As one tires of the highly seasoned foods 
and hungers for the plainer fare, so the King has wearied 
of his players and asks to hear again those melodies from 
the hill country, where he lived when a boy. For this 
reason I am sent to fetch thee. 

David. 
My Lord, to serve thee, to serve the king, would be the 
greatest happiness of my life. 

Jonathan. 
If thy music, David, could but restore my father to his 
former self, I would be thy debtor always. 

David.- 

My Lord. (Starts to kneel. Jonathan restrains him.) 

Jonathan. 
I like thee, David. (Placing hand on his shoulder.) 
Come to the camp of Saul. Thou wilt have a friend in 
Jonathan. 



32 "The Shepherd King" 

MlCHAL. 

(Coming forward.) My brother's friends are also 
mine. Thou wilt come? 

David. 

The day after the morrow. And early will I start ; be- 
fore the sun hath risen I will be at the vale of Elah. 

Jonathan. 
Tis well. 

Mother. 
David, thy apparel is not suitable, I fear. 

Jonathan. 

(Smiling.) That shall be my care, good mother. 

(Mother and Father whisper, and she goes 
to house.) 

Phalti. 
My raiments shall be at thy disposal, David, and, I may 
say without vanity, no man can lay claim to greater vari- 
ety than I. Thou "shalt be dressed 

Jonathan. 
As befits him. I appreciate thy generous spirit, Phalti, 
but I would not have David other than he is. 

Phalti. 
But dress doth make the man ! 

Michal. 

Then men are easily made. 

Jonathan. 
It often conceals the man. 

Bondwoman. 
(Bondwoman enters, speaks to Jesse.) Master, the 
wine is poured. 



"The Shepherd King" 33 

Jesse. 
My Lord, wilt thou honor me by entering my house, 
that I may serve thee? 

Jonathan. 
I thank thee, Jesse. And then we must return. Come, 
Michal. 

Michal. 
I will await thee here, brother. 

Phalti. 
So will I. 

Michal. 

No, go thou with my brother. I am not thirsty and 
prefer to look about. 

Phalti. 

Thy cruel commands are a pleasure to obey. (Joins 
Jonathan and Jesse, n r ho exit.) 

David. 
(As they exit goes r., looks then at Michal, zvho is l.) 

Michal. 
(Comes to c) Art thou loath to leave the hills and thy 
sheep ? 

David. 
I was thinking neither of the hills nor of my sheep. 
My thoughts were of my mother. She will miss me. 

Michal. . 
Thou art thy mother's favorite? She can see thee 
often. Elah is not far distant. When I heard that my 
brother was coming in search of thee I persuaded my 
sister to let me accompany him. She was not pleased to 
have me come, and perhaps I was too wilful, for she hath 
taken the place of a mother to me. 



34 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
Thou hast a sister? 

MlCHAL. 

Aye, my elder sister, Merab. 

David. 
The times are dangerous for travel. 

MlCHAL. 

Yes, yes, I know ; but it is so lonely at Gibeah now. I 
often journey to the camp and spend whole days with my 
father. Besides, I fear no harm when with my brother 
Jonathan. 

David. 

Thou hast a noble brother. 

MlCHAL. 

Aye, the best in the world. I love him dearly, as do all 
who know him. 

David. 

I have lived always among these hills. I know nothing 
of the manners of those who live near the King. I fear 
I may offend. 

MlCHAL. 

Nay, be thyself and thou can'st not offend. I have 
spoken to thee frankly, for I like thy ways, and thou hast 
not used nattering words to me. Thou need'st have no 
fear, thou wilt have a friend in my brother — and — and — 
my brothers friends are mine. 

David. 
I pray that I may prove worthy of such honored friend- 
ship. 



"The Shepherd King" 35 

Adora. 
(Enters from barn. ) 

(Re-enter Jonathan and Phalti, followed 
by Jesse.) 

Jonathan. 

Now, little sister, we must make ready to start. (Mo- 
tioning to servants.) Prepare the way. 

Phalti. 

(Who has come dozen to Michal.) Princess, I will 

conduct thee. 

Michal. 

(Passes up stage between Phalti and David 
to c. Drops a rose. She turns for it as she 
does so. David and Phalti, zvho are about 
equal distance from it, step forward to se- 
cure it. David gains the rose. Michal 
gives a slight laugh. David hands it to 
her.) 

Michal. 
(Takes it, regards it for a second, then proffers it to 
David.) A reward for thy alertness. 

David, 

(Taking it.) I thank thee. Princess. 

Phalti. 
(Goes up to c. Turns to David.) The Wise Men of the 
East tell us that every life has a particular star to guide it. 
Thy star, David, is much in evidence. (Exit.) 

Jonathan. 
The day after to-morrow, David, I shall expect thee. 

(Michal joins her brother. They exit l. 
Unnoticed she drops a piece of her gar- 
ment.) 



36 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
(X's up, looks off. Places rose in bosom of shirt.) 

Mother. 
(Who is by table, r. ) David! 

David. 
Yes, mother. (Coming to her.) 

Mother. 
Thou art going, David ? 

David. 
Aye, mother, 'tis a command. 

Mother. 

I am loath to part with thee, my son. 

David. 
The distance is not great. I will come to see thee often. 

Mother. 
My love for thee would make me selfish, my son. 

David. 

(Has placed her in a chair and kneels by her side, L.) 
Thy love, my mother, will always be with me, whether 
near or far. Thy teachings will I keep in my heart, thy 
image will be always before me. If I have been ambi- 
tious, if I have dreamed of doing something that would 
benefit our people, dear mother, it was always with the 
thought that you would smile and be proud of your David. 
1 would be great, not for greatness sake, but for thine. I 
am to leave my sheep to play before the King. Ah, 
mother, pray that I may sound a chord whose deep vibra- 
tions may find a response in the heart of Saul, that he 
may be our King, as of old — the glory of Israel ! 



"The Shepherd King" 37 

Mother. 
(Rises and kisses him on forehead.) My prayer shall 
always be for thee, my boy, my boy ! 

David. 
(Rising and putting arm about her, leads her to house.) 
Come, mother, think no more of my going. Thy David 
cannot be happy while there are tears in his mother's eyes. 

Mother. 
My boy. (Kisses him and exits.) 

David. 
(Takes rose from bosom, regards it, comes down to 
table. ) 

Adora. 
(Who has remained in the background, l., comes to c.) 
David ! 

David. 
What is it, Adora? 

Adora. 
Who wilt 'tend the sheep when thou art gone? 

David. 
Why, I had not thought of that. 

Adora. 
I should like to do it for thee. . 

David. 

Thou, Adora ? Why thou art not strong enough to pro- 
tect my sheep. Ozem must take my place when I am 
gone. 

Adora. 

And yet I would I might. They know my voice and 
would not wander from me. 



38 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
True, Dora, and if it please thee thou shalt go with 
Ozem. 

Adora. 
I thank thee, David. And, David, when wilt thou come 
back? Will it be long? 

David. 
I do not know how long, Adora ; but when the King is 
pleased I will return. 

Adora. 
If I get thee thy harp wilt thou play one of thy shep- 
herd tunes for me? 

David. 
Aye, Adora. (Adora exits in house.) (Goes up, looks 
off u) The dear old hills! Yet I do not feel the regret 
I know I should to leave them. 'Tis the sweet Princess" 
doings. She is as fair as the flower (coming down table) 
she gave it to me. (Looks fondly at flower.) Ah, David, 
David ! Thou art letting thy foolish fancies run riot in 
thy heart. 

Adora. 
(Enters with harp. Hands it to David. Sits on sheep- 
cote, c.) 

David. 
(Takes harp; sings simple pastoral song.) Adora, hast 
thou ever seen one so fair as the Princess? 



'The Shepherd King" 39 

Adora. 



Never, David. 



( Michal enters looking for lost article. Stops, 
and listens to song. Adora turns and sees 
her. Michal motions for her to be silent. 
She hears David's last speech. Jonathan 
conies, takes Michal by hand, leads her 
off. At this point David, who has been ar- 
ranging flower, stops suddenly, as though 
he felt her presence, turns, sees nothing; 
shows disappointment [pause] ; then goes 
quickly to c. Looking off, sees Michal.) 

David. 
Adora, the Princess ! 

Adora. 
Aye ! 

Mother. 
(Enters from house.) David, thy supper. (Curtain.) 



END OF FIRST ACT. 



Lights start to change, at Jonathan's first exit, from 
sunset to twilight ; moon effect as David starts song. 



CHARACTERS USED IN THE SECOND ACT 



Saul King of Israel 

Jonathan His Son 

Doeg An Edomite, Captain of a Thousand 

Omar (His Brother) Captain of 2d Guard 

Eliah, \ 

Abinadab, J Sons of Jesse 

Shammah, ) 

Goliath The Philistine Giant 

Tamar Captain of 1st Guard 

Armor-bearer 

Merab, 



Saul's daughters 
Michal, 

and 

David A Shepherd Boy, afterward King of Israel 

Soldiers, Officers, Musicians, Courtiers and Court 
Ladies, etc. 



ACT SECOND. 

Yale of Elah. — Encampment of Saul's army. Saul's 
tent l. I. At back uneven ground, rising to slight emi- 
nence, c., back. Back drop shows Yale of Elah, a stream 
divides the rival armies. Tents of the Israelites to the l., 
and just discernible, across stream, r., begin the tents 
of the Philistines. 

Time : Early morning, sunrise effects, etc. At rise of 
curtain, trumpet is sounded for the change of guard. 
Enter, from the l. u. e., column of soldiers ; the sentry 
that is on duty at rise falls in the -rear. Simultaneously 
with this action relief guard enters from r. 2, e., so that 
both columns meet center. Exchange salutes. 

Omar (Of relieving guard). 
What news of the night ? 

Captain Tamar (Of relieved guard). 
None. The accursed Philistines have no fear of us. 
They sleep soundly. 

Omar. 
How goes it with your men ? 

Captain Tamar. 
Their hearts are filled with bitterness, for forty days 
have they had to listen to the taunts of Goliath, who gives 
us the dare to our teeth, and, like jackals, we listen and 
run to cover. Thou art not an Israelite ? 

Omar. 
No, I am an Edomite, and serve your King. 



44 "The Shepherd King''' 

Captain Tamar. 
Have you the watchword? 

Omar. 
No. 

Captain. 
"The Lord is King." 

Omar. 
And the answer? 

Captain. 
"Saul, his servant/' 

Omar. 
■(Salutes.) Peace be with thee. 

Captain. 
(Salutes.) And with thee. (Gives order; exits l. 2.) 

Jonathan. 
(Enters, followed by Doeg, l. u. Salutes.) 

Jonathan. 
Peace be with thee. Of what watch art thou ? 

Omar. 
Second watch of the morning, Prince Jonathan. I am 
about to place my men. 

Jonathan. 
Do so. 

Omar. 
(Gives order, men exit r. 2, leaves two on 
guard.) 

Jonathan. 
Seat thyself. Captain Doeg, and let me hear the news 
from the north. 



"The Shepherd King" 45 

DOEG. 

(r.) There is nothing of moment to relate, save of a 
few cursory attacks against the Philistines, carried on to 
keep our men alert. 

Jonathan. 
A wise course. One sadly needed in our ranks. 

Doeg. 
I have heard that discontent reigns among you. 

Jonathan. 
We are practically in a state of siege. On the hills to 
our right the Philistines are encamped with thrice our 
number, holding the vantage ground. My father dared 
not make a stand until you arrived with forces from the 
north. Our men have been subjected to the mouthings 
and insults of the Philistine rabble, led by the giant Go- 
liath, who daily appears and hurls at us defiance. 

Doeg. 
And the inactivity of your soldiers hath allowed mu- 
tiny to spread amongst them. 

Jonathan. 
Yes, but to-day, Saul holds council with his captains, 
who will urge immediate action. Doubt not your King 
will lead you to victory, as when he fought the Amalekites. 

Doeg. 
It is the daily prayers of our people. 

Merab. 
(Enters from l.) 

Jonathan. 
Sister Merab (X's to her), you are abroad early. 



46 "The Shepherd King" 

Merab. 
Michal, is she not here? 

Jonathan. 
No, I have not seen her ; but here is Doeg, returned 
from the north. 

Doeg. 
(X's to c.j kneels and kisses Merab's hand.) Greeting 
Merab; my silence must speak my joy at seeing you. 
Words cannot express my feelings. 

Merab. 
They have done much towards it, Captain Doeg. Peace 
be with thee. ( To Jonathan. ) Brother, I am concerned 
about Michal ; she left her couch before dawn, and has 
not returned. 

Jonathan. 
Fear not, she is probably wandering about the stream. 
I will go in search of her. Captain, I will see thee at the 
Council. ( Exits up steps, r. v.) 

Doeg. 
Merab, now that we are alone, have you no warmer 
greeting for me? 

Merab. 
I am glad of your safe return. I might say that I have 
wished for it. 

Doeg. 
Your words cast a doubt upon your sincerity. Merab, 
have you no word of love for me? 

Merab. 

These are not the times to think of love. Are we not 
daily threatened by invasion from the Philistines? 



"The Shepherd King" 47 

DOEG. 

My love for you, — that is more powerful than all else. 
For the three months that I have been away from thee, 
one thought, one passion alone has possessed me. Every 
time I drew my sword against the cursed Philistines, it 
was not for the children of Israel, but for thee. My love 
hath grown until it consumes me. Of what consequence 
to me are deeds of valor, glory, or even a crown, without 
thy love? Merab, my passion is so great, my manhood is 
humbled ; and even on my knees I would sue to thee for 
a word of love. {Kneels.) 

Merab. 
Rise, Doeg. I appreciate thy love. In heart I am 
not worthy of thy passion. 

Doeg. 
Not worthy ! Nay, 'tis Ithat am not worthy ! 

Merab. 
Since thy departure there have been many changes. I 
am no longer free. 

Doeg. 
What say'st thou ? Dost mean that thou hast given thy 
love to another, after thy promise to me? 

Merab. 
Nay, do not misunderstand ; 'tis not that I esteem thee 
less, but my hand is no longer free. Israel is threatened. 
My father is powerless while the dark spirit is over him. 
He hath proclaimed that to the one who will overcome 
this boasting giant, he will give my hand, and place him 
at the head of the army. 



48 "The Shepherd King" 

DOEG. 

A position that I was led to expect as a reward for the 
services I have rendered. 

Merab. 

I am Saul's eldest daughter. I would rule. Love is the 
dream of the weak. It would not suffice for me. 



You would sacrifice me to gain the summit of your 



Doeg 
3uld sacrifice r 
ambition ? 

Merab. 
The position is mine by right of birth. I will hold it if 
I sacrifice my soul. 

Doeg. 
Such is your love? 

Merab. 
Such my ambition. 

Doeg. 
Dost think the spark thou hast kindled in my breast 
could be extinguished ? No ! That spark has grown to a 
passion. In thy dream of ambition thou hast forgotten 
me, Doeg, the Edomitc! Thou hast but one ambition. 
I, like thee, have but one: To possess thee! 

Merab. 
{Gives slight laugh.) 

Doeg. 
Merab, do not mock me. My love is great. Dost thou 
think that I would allow another to take thee from me? 
No ! Before that, my sword would cleave him in twain, 
or bury itself in thy heart! (Seizing her hand.) 

Merab. 
(Wrenching herself free.) Dost forget that thou art 
speaking to the daughter of th\ king! 



"The Shepherd King" 49 

DOEG. 

Nay ; I am speaking to the woman I worship. 

Merab. 
My heart goes with my hand, to the highest! (X'ing 
to l. u. ) Thy way lies through the destruction of Goliath. 

Doeg. 
Nay, proud Princess ; it lies through my will. I am 
determined, though a dozen Goliaths rise as barriers. 

Omar. 
{Enters c. ) Doeg! 

Doeg. 
(l. c. funis.) Omar, my brother. (Embrace.) 

Omar. 
I heard not of thy arrival. 

Doeg. 
I returned this morning, from beyond Jordan. Are 
we free to speak? 

Omar. 
Yes ; I have just entered on guard duty — there are none 
about. 

Doeg. 
Tell me, brother; how stand affairs here? 

Omar. 
Badly. Saul's madness continues. For forty days he 
hath done nothing but debauch, rave, and curse before 
all who seek him. The army is demoralized ; every day 
men desert. It is only their love for Jonathan that keeps 
the army from total revolt. 

Doeg. 
And the Philistines? 



50 "The Shepherd King" 

Omar. 
I have kept them informed of Saul's condition. They 
know that each day his madness lasts, greater will grow 
the mutiny among the Israelites. Daily hath Goliath ap- 
peared and hurled defiance at Saul, to irritate and keep 
alive the evil spirit. To-day I have prepared a new tor- 
ture for him. When he hath his captains about him at the 
Council I will fire an arrow in their midst. Around it 
will be a strip of parchment, torn from their sacred writ- 
ings, with Goliath's challenge upon it. 

Doeg. 
But the risk. It will be known that the arrow was 
discharged within our lines. It will arouse suspicion. 

Omar. 
Even so, as long as it does not point towards me. 

Doeg. 
And what say'th Goliath to all this? 

Omar. 
He hath promised us large rewards in gold and silver, 
and will give us rank equal to the highest in the land. 

Doeg. 
Tis well ! But thou canst not be too careful, brother. 
(Hand on his shoulder.) 

Omar. 
Thirst for revenge hath made me bold. Yet I will be 
prudent. I have not forgotten the day that a band of 
marauders from Saul's army murdered our parents and 
left our home in ashes. 

Doeg. 
The revenge that we have waited for is close at hand. 
I serve them, but I hate them all — all, save one. 



'The Shepherd King" 51 



Omar. 

{Surprised.) Save one ! 



Saul's eldest daughter — Merab. 



Doeg. 
— Mer; 

Omar. 
You love her? 

Doeg. 
I love her as I hate her kin ! 

Omar. 
Does she know? 

Doeg. 
Yes. 

Omar. 
And returns thy love? 

Doeg. 
She shall; I have sworn it! {Trumpet sounds.) 

Omar. 
I must return. 

Doeg. 
Farewell. 

Omar. 
Fear not for me, none shall ever know that the same 
mother bore us. And if ill should befall me, as a stranger 
to thee I will die. Farewell. {Exits l.) 

Doeg. 
{Starts to exit. Sees Jonathan and Michal. 
Salutes and exits l. u.) 

Michal. 
{Bearing in her arms flowers.) Do not scold me, 
brother. 



52 "The Shepherd King" 

Jonathan, 

I will not scold thee, little sister; but these are danger- 
ous times, and it is not safe for thee to wander beyond 
our lines. 

Michal. 

I will obey thee, brother Jonathan ; I did wrong in go- 
ing so far, but the morning was so beautiful, the flowers 
so sweet, that I was tempted. But see, I have conquered 
my tempters, and brought them prisoners, as soon I hope 
thou mayst the wicked Philistines. 

Merab. 
(Enters from l.) 

Jonathan. 
They shall yet feel the power of Israel ! 

Merab. 
Child, thou hast done wrong, and caused thy brother 
and myself great worry. I would not have our father 
know of thy transgression. 

Jonathan. 
She is truly penitent, Merab. 

Michal. 
Yes, and— and will give thee as a peace-offering these 
sweet flowers. See, are they not beautiful? (To Merab.) 
This garland I will hang about thy queenly neck; to 
brother Jonathan I will give a kiss (does so) as cold 
metal armor is a poor background for tender flowers. 

Merab. 
Why, Michal, these flowers are from the hills. Surely, 
thou hast not ventured 



"The Shepherd King" 53 

MlCHAL. 

To the hills ? Even so. Within sight of the tents of 
the Philistines. 

Jonathan. 
Child ! My sister ; thy danger ! 

Michal. 
Ah ! Don't scold me, brother ! I have been punished. 
(As she X's to throne to place balance of flowers at foot 
of chair l., a round flat stone falls from the folds of her 
dress. Picking up stone.) Ah! Here is my reminder, 
brother and sister mine ; do you behold this lowly stone ? 
It saved my life ! 

Merab. 
Michal ! 

Jonathan. 
What say'st thou? 

Michal. 
(Raising her hand.) Silence and listen ! Thou, brother, 
on my right hand. (To Merab.) Thou at the foot of the 
throne : a fitting seat for my queenly sister — while I relate 
my little adventure : The first blast of the trumpet awak- 
ened me ; I wandered out into the open ; the dew was 
heavy on the ground ; the sun just flashing her rays above 
the horizon. The flowers seemed to smile; all was still, 
save the tread of the sentry. I plucked a flower here, 
another a little further on, and as I would raise my eyes 
still another seemed to nod and bid me come. Thus I 
ran from flower to flower, vowing that each should be 
my last. Still ahead, like the illusory horizon, one more, 
each handsomer than the other. At last my greed was 
satisfied. I looked about me, and to my amazement, 
found that I had wandered almost to the sentry lines of 
our enemy. 



54 "The Shepherd King" 

Jonathan. 

Sister! 

Michal. 

I turned and fled towards our father's tent. Scarcely 
had I ran the distance of a well-spent arrow, when I was 
startled by a roar. I turned — a great mountain lion pur- 
sued me. Imagine my alarm. Of course, I screamed 
and ran the faster, but it was useless. Exhausted with 
fright, I sank to the ground. The animal was but a 
length away. I closed my eyes and tried to pray. Just 
then a wizzing sound assailed my ears, and then a thud. 
Fearingly I opened my eyes. The lion was injiis death 
gasp, and rolling towards me this stone that had slain the 
monster and saved my life. 

Merab. 
Wonderful ! 

Jonathan. 

And who was your protector? 

Michal (Coyly). 
I know nothing, save that he was a shepherd lad, which 
I perceived from his dress as he came running towards 
me. 

Merab. 
You spoke with him? 

Michal. 
Not a word. He gave me no chance, for when he saw 
that I had risen, and was unharmed, he stopped in his 
course towards me, waved his hand, turned, and ran 
away. Nor did he once turn his head in my direction, al- 
though I watched until he was out of sight. 



"The Shepherd King" 55 

Jonathan. 
His modesty proves him a brave man. {Laughs with 
her.) I should like to know the noble youth. 

Michal. 
He was a comely lad, with abundance of glossy hair 
that glistened in the sun. (Sighs.) Ah, me! It would 
not be hard to love such a youth ! 

Merab. 
Fie ! thou sentimental child ! Go put thyself in the 
hands of thy maids, that they may make thee presentable. 
Our father, to-day, holds council with his captains. 

Michal. 
Ah, dear sister ! that is why thou hast dressed with such 
care, eh ! eh ! The noble Captain Doeg will be here ? Eh ! 
eh! (Laughs.) 

Merab. 
Foolish child ! 

Michal. 

The rose is in thy cheek, sister. But I will obey thee. 

(Going.) How I should like to see my shepherd-lad in a 

captain's habiliments. I know he would rival Captain 

Doeg, and almost equal our brother. (Exits, laughing.) 

Merab. 
Brother, how long are we to endure the insults of the 
enemy without raising our hands against them ? 

Jonathan: 
A stand will be taken to-day. 

Merab. 
Is it not true that the knowledge of our father's condi- 
tion hath disheartened the army, and that they say, among 
themselves, "King Saul is mad?" 



56 "The Shepherd King" 

Jonathan. 
Aye, sister, 'tis but too true. Let us hope that when 
he sees his officers about him to-day, he will be restored 
to his old self, and so renew confidence in the army. 

Merab. 
Dost thou believe in Samuel's words : "That the king- 
dom shall be given to another at our father's death ?" 

Jonathan. 
What right have I to doubt it ? Samuel is the prophet 
of Jehovah. 

Merab.. 
Then the royal sceptre will pass from us, and thou wilt 
be deprived of thy birth-right? 

Jonathan. 
'Tis so declared. 

Merab. 
And he who will take thy place, hath he been chosen? 

Jonathan. 

Heaven hath consecrated him, 'Tis said that the prophet 

Samuel hath already anointed him, and his brow but 

awaits the crown. 

TT . ~ Merab. 

His name: 

Jonathan. 

None knows, save God and the prophet Samuel. 

Merab. 
( X'ing L.) Thus through no act of thine, thou art de- 
prived of a crown. 

Jonathan. 
But, if the passing of the crown from me would restore 
our father to peace and honor, gladly would I relinquish 
all my rights. 



"The Shepherd King" 57 

Merab. 
Thou are indeed a generous man. (Exits.) 

(Enter Eliah, Abinadab and Shammah in 
dress of King's body-guard. All salute.) 

Jonathan. 
Peace be with thee ! Thou art sons of Jesse ! Captains 
in the King's body-guard? 

Eli ah. 
(l.) Aye, my lord. 

Jonathan. 
Hast thou not a younger brother, named David? 

Abinadab. 
(Aside to Shammah.) The Prince hath heard of 
David's anointment. 

Shammah. 
Yes, my lord ; he tends our father's flock. As a singer 
and player on the harp he hath no equal throughout the 
hills. 

Eliah. 
Accomplishments of little purpose, when the Philis- 
tines surround our homes. 

Jonathan. 
Thou art wrong, Eliah ; many great deeds have been 
born of song. 

Shammah. 
So have I heard, and when the prophet Samuel honored 
our village, of all our house, 'twas David he blessed, and 
anointed with oil. 

Abinadab. 
Thus planting the seed of vanity, and setting him above 
us. 



58 "The Shepherd King" 

Jonathan. 
(Surprised.) Thou sayest that the prophet Samuel 
showed special favor to thy brother, David ? 

Shammah. 
True, my lord ; Samuel did bless, and pour sacred oil 
upon his head. 

Eli ah. 
The prophet was moved by the music of his voice and 
his pretty face. 

Jonathan. 
Thou dost thy brother an injustice, Eliah. Learn to 
love him. Honor is in store for all of thy house. Peace 
be with thee. (Exits). 

Eliah. 
Dost thou hear, brothers ? The Prince favors us ; we 
may be advanced. 

Shammah. 
'Tis not of us alone the Prince is thinking; his words 
include our brother David. (Enter David.) 

Eliah. 
David ! Thou dost make too much of the lad — and it 
would be wetl for thee to speak less of Samuel's foolish 
act. 

Abinadab. 
Even tho' the seer did mock us, and pour the oil upon 
his pretty head, what has come of it ? Hasn't he still kept 
his sheep? 

Eliah. 
Tho' me thinks his pride hath enlarged, and of late he 
casts longing eyes upon the soldier's life. 



"The Shepherd King" 59 

Shammah. 
Thou are wrong, brothers, in speaking so of our David. 
The lad hath no pride. He sought not the honor, what- 
ever may come of it. 

David. 
I am glad I have one brother who loves me. 

Shammah. 
(Embraces David.) I am glad to see thee, David. 

David. 
I thank thee, Shammah, and I am glad to find thee 
noble. 

Eli ah. 
(Ignores David and X's l.) What hast brought thee 
here? 

Abinadab. 
(Follozving Eliah.) Hast thou turned traitor to thy 
parents ? 

Shammah. 
For shame ! 

Eliah. 
Thy place is with our father, tending his flock. 

Abinadab. 
Thou art not needed here. 

Shammah. 
(To Eliah and Abinadab.) If thou canst not speak 
kindly, then hold thy peace. 

Eliah. 
'Tis thy encouragement that hath filled his head with 
vanity, and made him neglect his work. 



60 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
Thou art wrong, Eliah. Never have I neglected my 
duties. I am here at the command of the King. 

Eliah and Abinadab. 
Command of the King? (Laugh.) 

David. 
Aye, brought by Prince Jonathan. 

Shammah. 
(Who is standing by David.) 'Tis an honor, indeed. 
If thou canst but please the King, thou wilt be greater 
than one of his captains. 

Abinadab. 
And thy elder brothers will bow low to thee. Return 
to thy father, tend his flocks and perform thy work; not 
idle thy time singing ditties at the King's Court. 

David. 
Thou art unjust. Never have I thought to put myself 
above any one. I am no longer a boy, but a man, yet I 
feel thy words bitterly. If I show no resentment, 'tis not 
that I lack spirit. I do not wish to quarrel with my 
brothers. 

Shammah. 
David is right. Thy envy hath made thee both bitter. 

Eliah. 
Dost thou seek to quarrel with us? 

• Shammah. 

I wish no quarrel, but from now on I will stand by 
David! (Trumpet sounds.) 

Abinadab. 
The King hath risen ! Come ! 



"The Shepherd King" 61 

Eliah. 
(X to David l. ) Have a care that .thou dost not dis- 
grace us. (Follows Abinadab.) 

Sham m ah. 
Do not heed them, David. ? Tis their envy that speaks. 
Fear nothing, if thou art called to play before the King. 
I must go now. The King holds his council here. Thou 
may'st remain, and later I will join thee. (Exits c. l.) 

Michal. 
(Enters from l. ) 

David. 
(X's and picks up short sword from r.) Ah, Israel! 
I pray for the day when thou shalt sheath thy sword and 
thy power over thy enemies shall be gained. (Holding 
sword up.) 

Michal. 
(Enters cautiously.) Art thou a warrior or shepherd? 

David. 
(Dropping sword, turns, embarrassed.) Princess! 
(Kneels.) 

Michal. 
Thou hast thy crook in one hand, a sword in the other. 
I know not which becomes thee the most. 

David. 
The sword I know little of. - 

Michal. 

And yet thou hast a weapon by thy side. 

David. 
My sling. 



62 "The Shepherd King" 

MlCHAL. 

Art thou proficient in its use? 

David. 

It hath never failed me. 

Michal. 
And to thy prowess I owe my life! (Holding out her 
hand.) 

David. 
(Kneels, bozvs over hand.) 

Michal. 
I thank thee, David. 

David. 
Nay, 'tis nothing-. 

Michal. 
Nothing! Dost thou think my life of so little value? 

David. 
(Embarrassed.) I — I meant not that — I — I meant 
that serving thee is an honor, and deserves no thanks. 

Michal. 
Why, I thought thee free from flattery. Thy speech is 
worthy of the noble Phalti. 

David. 
Thy pardon. Princess. I would not so presume. I 
know my station. Thou art the daughter of a King. My 
words, Princess, came from my heart. 

Michal. 
I do not doubt thou art sincere. I did but jest. But 
tell me, why did'st thou run away from me on the hill ? 



"The Shepherd King" 63 

David. 
I saw thee freed from danger. What more could I have 
done ? 

MlCHAL. 

And did'st thou know me? 

David. 
Aye, I had been watching thee. I shouted ; thou didst 
not hear me ; then I ran towards thee, preparing my sling ; 
praying Jehovah to guide my aim. 

Michal. 
Thy prayer was heard. 

David. 
Thy danger was so great, that in the interval I lived 
years of torture. My limbs seemed paralyzed, my blood 
frozen ; my heart ceased to beat for a moment ; a haze 
veiled my sight, and when the mist cleared, and I saw the 
creature fall, I knew that thou wert safe. The reaction 
was so great that my senses seemed to desert me. I 

shouted with thankfulness. 'Twas then- (Hand to 

his eyes. X'ing a little to r.) 

Michal. 
(Regards him a second, then goes to him. Timidly 
takes his hand and turns him towards her.) Why, there 
are tears in thy eyes, David ! 

David. 
Oh, Princess ! Do not think me weak ! 

Michal. 
Weak ! Thou art noble ! Thou hast done much for me, 

David. Thou hast saved my life, and (Slight laugh.) 

I told Merab and Jonathan how I was saved by a shep- 
herd boy. But, I — I did not mention thy name. 



64 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
In my services to thee, Princess, I was but an instru- 
ment. I have come to serve the King with the best that 
is in me. 

{Flourish of trumpets.) 

Mich a l. 
My father comes to hold his council here. Should 
Merab see me conversing with thee alone she would scold 
me. In my frankness to thee, thou wilt not think me 
unmaidenly ? 

David. 
I honor thee as I honor my mother's love. I would 
serve thee with my life. (Kisses hand. Starts to kneel.) 

MlCHAL. 

(hi a hurry, as flourish sounds.) Nay, thou shalt not 
kneel. I will pray for thy success. Peace be with thee ! 

(Enter processional march.) 

(Soldiers come on from two columns, up 
and dozvn stage, facing each other. Enter 
Saul, who passes between columns to his 
chair r. Then enter Jonathan, Doeg, 
Eliah, Abinadab, Shammah. Jonathan 
stands at Saul's r., Doeg at his l. Three 
Brothers dress stage r. David joins them, 
and remains on their l. Soldiers form 
group back.) 

Saul. 
(To Jonathan.) Whom have we assembled? 

Jonathan. 
The three sons of Jesse, captains of thy body-guard, 
Abner of the thousand, and Tamar of the five hundred, 



"The Shepherd King" 65 

light armed Doeg, who arrived this morning from be- 
yond Jordan. 

Saul. 
How many men did he bring? 

Jonathan. 
He will answer for himself. 

Doeg. 

(Steppi)ig forward.) A quarter of our band, O King-; 
no more could be spared. 

Saul. 
Xo more could be spared! Why no more? Are they 
cowards? Or do they fear to serve under' the standard 
of the mad King? Is that not what I am called? 

Doeg. 
Nay, your Majesty. Xo loyal Israelite hath heard such 
said, and allowed the speaker to live. 



Retire. Thy words do but jingle. They have not the 



Saul 
words do 
ring of honesty. 

Jonathan. 

(Gently places hand on Saul's arm.) Father! 

Saul. 
(Turns to Jonathan.) Eh, ah! Jonathan, my son, my 
son ; robbed of his birthright through the will of Samuel. 

JONATHAN-. 

But he is the mouth-piece of God, Father ! 

Saul. 
How can a King reign, and conquer, and bless his 
kingdom with Heaven armed against him, Hell leagued 
to destroy him, and earth's most powerful seer hurling 



66 "The Shepherd King" 

prophecies of evil upon his head? It is all this that has 
brought the evil spirit upon me. 

Jonathan. 
My dear father, the holy prophet holdeth no anger. He 

pities thee, and 

Saul. 
Pities ! Pities Saul, the King ! Let him beware ! By 
the head of my father, if he pities me I will slay him, 
though he cling to the gates of Heaven ! 

Business: Arrow comes from r. u. Sticks in 
stage l. c. Picture of general consternation 
for a second. 

DOEG. 

(Rustics forward, seizes arrow.) 

Jonathan. 
(Goes to his l. Looks at missile. Gk'es order.) Sham- 
mah, take the soldiers on guard, scour the immediate 
vicinity, arrest all who cannot explain their presence. Go! 

Sham m ah. 
(Exits R. u. with soldiers.) 

Saul. 
What is the purport of this new outrage? 

Jonathan. 
An arrow hath been discharged within our sentry lines. 

Saul. 
And the message attached? 

Doeg. 
It is writ on parchment, torn from the sacred writings. 



"The Shepherd King" 67 

Saul. 
What sayest thou ! A desecration of the holy parch- 
ments of Israel ! No man, save a dog of a Philistine 
would dare such an act ! Read me the message ! 

Jonathan. 
Father, bid me destroy this scurrilous missile. 

Saul. : 
Dost think me so weak that I can no longer bear the 
stings of my enemies ? Read ! 

Doeg. 

( Reads. ) To Saul, of Kish, King of Sfaves : Goliath 
of Gath, sendeth thee greetings. By this writing he chal- 
lengeth thee to single combat for thy Crown. He awaiteth 
Saul, the Hebrew, King of Slaves ! Send me thy answer, 
thou dog of a Jew. 

Saul. 

(During reading, seems transfixed. SligJit pause, with 
deep intensity.) Oh, God of Israel, if Thou hast sought 
to scourge me for my disobedience, how great has been 
my punishment. My soul is raw and bleeding, exposed to 
the venomous stings of my enemies ! (Sinks back in deep 
gloom.) 

Eli ah. 

(Who at Shammah's exit X's up back.) Your Maj- 
esty, Shammah and his men are returning. 

Jonathan? 
Alone ? 

Eliah. 
Xo ; they have a prisoner with them. 

Doeg. 
A prisoner. (Quickly X's up to c.) 



68 "The Shepherd King" 

Eli ah. 
And he wears the uniform of an Israelite. 

Jonathan. 
A traitor. 1 thought as much. 

Shammah, 
(Enters with soldiers; between them is Omar 
— arms bound behind him.) 

Doeg. 
(Just previous to Shammah's entrance, 
shozvs emotion and X's to R. I.) 

Shammah. 
(To Jonathan.) My lord, this man was hastening 
away from the opening between the sentry lines. He 
would not explain why he was so far away from his post. 
He is Captain of the second morning- guard to the north of 
the royal tent. 

Joxatijax. 
(To Omar.) Thy name? 

Omar. 
( )mar. 

Jonathan. 

Thy father's name? 

Omar. 
Seek for it among those murdered by thy father, the 
King of Slaves. 

Jonathan. 
Search him ! 

SlIAM MAN. 

(Searches hint; draws from behind his breast- 
plate fragment of parchment, which he 
hands to Jonathan.) 



"The Shepherd King" 69 

Jonathan. 
Compare it with other piece. ( To Doeg. ) 

Positions: Omar has been brought dozen to 
r. c. The Soldiers have retired after 
searching, to back of the stage. Sham- 
maii is R. of Omar. Jonathan is l. of 
him. Eliah is with Abinadab, r. 2. Doeg 
is R. David, during scene, lias worked 
back stage, so that he is about c. back. 

Saul. 
(To Omar.) Thou slave! thou dog of an Edomite ! I 
Avould that thou hadst a hundred lives, that I might 
wrench them from thee. One will hot suffice for my 
hatred of thee. I'll send thy traitorous soul to hell. (In 
his passion rushes forward to strike javelin at Omar, and 
is met by David, zvho begins to sing.) 

David. 
(Coming in front of Saul, sings in low tone.) 

Saul. 
( In amazement at boy's audacity, stands on picture. 
His countenance changes; his passion subsides.) Noble 
youth ! Thy music, aye, audacity hath mastered my pas- 
sion ; reason again reigns. Stand thou by my side! (Last 
speech spoken slowly, as he returns to his seat. With this 
action David follows, and continues the playing.) 

Jonathan. 

(To Omar.) Traitor! Death shall be thy reward! 
Doeg, attend to it ! 

Doeg. 

(Slight exclamation : staggers a little.) A\\\ 



70 "The Shepherd King" 

Eli ah. 
What is it? (Catching him.) 

Doeg. 
(Throwing Eliaii aside.) 'Tis nothing. 

Jonathan. 
(Regarding him.) Yet thy cry had the ring of pain. 

Doeg. 
A catch from an old javelin wound in the side. 

Jonathan. 
Away with him ! 

Business: Doeg motions soldiers — two come 
doziii, one on each side of Omar — and 
lead him off — followed by Doeg. 

Saul. 
(Oblivious to scene.) Thy name, youth? 

David. 
(Still playing.) David, O King; son of Jesse of Beth- 
lehem, 

Jonathan. 
(Aside; looking at picture.) David, the consecrated 
one. 

Saul. 
I see that thou dost not think me mad, like the rest. I 
would like to keep thee near me. (Extending his hand.) 

David. 
(Raising hand to his lips.) My life, O King, is at 
thy command ! 

Michal. 
(On business has X'd to Jonathan.) Tis he! My 
shepherd lad ! 



"The Shepherd King" 71 

Jonathan. 
Yea, I know ! See what a change he hath wrought upon 
our father. Xoble youth ; my heart goes out to him. 

MlCHAL. 

(Coyly.) So does mine, brother Jonathan. (X's to 
Merab.) 

DOEG. 

(E liters X's r.) 

Eli ah. 
(To his Brother.) Now we will have to bow our 
heads to our younger brother. 

Abinadab. 
The boy will next fancy his shepherd crook a sceptre. 

Business: Sentry steps forward, makes a 
salute to Doeg, who answers and goes to c. 

MlCHAL. 

(To aIerab.) Hast thou ever seen his like? 

Merab. 
He hath a manner that doth fascinate one. He hath 
charmed our father. 

Doeg. 
(Coming c.) Goliath of Gath, the leader of the Philis- 
tines, surrounded by a band of the sons of Anak, hath 
crossed the stream and approaches your Majesty's tent. 
(General hum of consternation -follows the mention of 
Goliath's name.) 

Jonathan. 
(X's up to c.) 

Doeg. 

(X's to R.) 



72 "The Shepherd King" 

Saul. 
Away with music! Again this boasting giant comes to 
annoy me, and I am powerless to stop his mouth ! 

David. 
( Who has X'd to his Brother.) Who is this man 
whose approach brings consternation upon all ? 

Sham mail 
It is the giant Goliath, a man twice thy height, and 
eight times thy weight ; so powerful that no man living 
could stand before him. 

Saul. 
I am accursed ! Accursed ! 

Voice of Goliath. 
Saul, Son of Kish, and King of Slaves ! Goliath of 
Gath challenged! thee to single combat. For forty days 
have I waited. Hast thy blood turned water ? 

Saul. 
This boasting giant is sent to curse me by his gods. 
When will the burden of my life end? Rather would I 
perish by his sword, than live to listen to his taunts ! 



Jonathan 
ords do no 
within our entrenchments. Thev fear to assail us 



Let him defy us ; words do no harm. We are strong 



David. 
Why cannot thy men surround this man and take him 
prisoner? 

Jonathan. 
It would be contrary to our rules of war. This man 
is a champion, chosen by bis people; his person is sacred 
against attack, save by a champion elected by us. 



"The Shepherd King" 73 

Voice of Goliath. 
How now, thou King of Slaves ! Is there no man of 
Israel brave enough to show me his face? 

Saul. 
To the one who would rid me of this torment I would 
make him great in riches and honor ; his father's house 
should be made princes in the land, and the hand of my 
eldest daughter should be his ! 

Merab. 

( To Doeg. ) Thou hearest ? 

Doeg. 
(To Merab.) There is no man who can stand against 
him. 

Saul. 
In all Israel, is there no man ! Xo man ! Xot one ! Who 
hath the courage, the faith of God, to rid their King of 
this monster? 

Doeg. 
Oh, King, do not think that we of the army lack cour- 
age ! To go against this man is certain death ! The con- 
test is unequal ! Xo single man can overcome him ! 

David. 
If there be no other to meet this blasphemer, with thy 
permission, O King, I will go. 

Omnes: . 
Thou ! The lad is a fool ! He doth try to shame us ! Etc. 

Doeg. 
Comest thou here to insult us ? 

Saul. 
What saith the vouth ? 



74 "The Shepherd King" 

Eliah. 
Cease thy mouthings ; thou knowest not what thou 
speakest ! 

Doeg. 
Thou stripling, dost think to laugh at us? 

Eliah. 
Return and watch our father's sheep ; seek not to insult 
the soldiers of Israel. 

Omnes. 
Let him cease. Send him home. Etc., etc. 

David. 
(To Omnes.) Rail not against me, men of Israel; my 
words were spoken in truth. (Dozvn in front of Saul, 
kneeling.) Hear me, O King; kneeling I crave my suit! 

Omnes. 
(Remonstrate amongst themselves.) 

Saul. 
(To Omnes.) Cease ! The lad hath a heart of a lion ! 
{To David.) Brave youth, thou hast found favor in my 
sight. Rise. I love thee for thy courage. But thou art 
only a youth, and this Goliath is a man of war. 

David. 
O King, let deeds, not words, speak for me. I know 
that to thine eyes I am not come to the strength of a man. 
and seem not fit for fighting; but my sinews are grown 
strong from protecting my flock. Once, when I my 
father's sheep was keeping, there came a lion from the 
wilderness and stole a lamb from among them. I chased 
the robber and rescued the lamb from his jaws, and when 
he turned upon me I seized him by the mane, tore his 
jaws asunder, and slew him. Be not cast down nor afraid, 



"The Shepherd King" 75 

O King-, for I will go against thine adversary and will 
bring him down, tall and mighty as he is, and thou shalt 
have great glory. 

Jonathan. 
This Goliath is heavily armed, and in complete armor ; 
his head alone exposed. 

David. 
I care not! I undertake to go! Thy consent, O King! 

Saul. 
Go! And God be with thee. If ill befalls thee, I shall 
mourn for thee as for a beloved son ! 

Jonathan. 
Then thou shalt wear my armor, David. 

David. 
Nay, I will meet him with my own weapon, the sling. 

Jonathan and Saul. 
Thy sling? 

David. 
Aye, and with it I will bring yon boaster to the earth. 
These stones I picked from the bed of the river. Five — 
no, one was spent on service. 

Michal. 
(Coming forward.) Here it is. I kept it in remem- 
brance. Take it, David, and my prayers go with thee. 

Voice of Goliath. 
O Saul, son of Kish, thou craven Benjaminite; I am he 
who slew thy high priest, and defiled the temple of thy 
God. Hast thou not a man to avenge thee? 



76 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
(A movement of supplication to Hcaren: 
goes up to c.) 

Voice of Goliath. 
How, now. youth, art thou all that Israel dare send to 
gaze upon me? 

David. 
I am David of Bethlehem. I dare gaze upon thee. I 
dare to accept thy challenge. 

Voice of Goliath. 
Am I a dog that a boy should come to drive me off with 
a stick ? 

David. 
Thou comest to me with a sword, and a spear, and a 
shield. But I come to thee in the name of the Lord of 
Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will he deliver 
thee into my hands, that all the world may know there 
is a God in Israel. 

Voice of Goliath. 
Come near me, child, and I will give thy flesh to the 

vultures. 

David has business with sling; retreats 
a few paees; runs rapidly forward swinging 
sling about his head; discharges it. Thud 
is heard. Groan from Goliath. David 

and all on stage hold picture. Voices off r., 
in despair. Murmurs increase. 

David. 

(As soon as thud is heard quickly runs off R.) 



"The Shepherd King" 77 

Jonathan. 
( Who goes to c. at David's exit. ) The stone hath hit 
its mark ! 

Saul. 
What sayest thou? 

Jonathan. 
Goliath is down. 

Omxes. 
Dead ! 

Jonathan. 
And slain by David ! 

David. 
(Enters -with head of Goliath. Quick cur- 
tain. Second picture — all crowd around it 
—David leaves it c. and quickly X's to 
Saul. ) 

(Third picture — David is before Michal; 
Jonathan with Merab; Soldiers shout- 
ing: Long live David, etc., etc.) 



END OF SECOND ACT. 



CHARACTERS USED IN THE THIRD ACT. 



Saul King of Israel 

Jonathan His Son 

Doeg An Edomite, Captain 'of a Thousand 

Prince Phalti. 

Ozem . . David's Brother 

Ahimelech A Priest 

Michal, ) 

V Saul's daughters 

Merab, ) 

Adora Waiting Maid to Michal 

and 

David A Captain in Saul's Army 

Soldiers, Dancers, Servants and Citizens of Gibeah. 



ACT THIRD. 

Saul's palace at Gibeah. A room richly furnished with 
wide veranda at back, reached by a couple of steps run- 
ning full width of stage ; veranda overlooks the city. 
Arches supported by pillars along L. and R. of stage. 
Saul's throne l. 2. Entrances made from veranda and 
R. and l. sides. Couches and the furnishings of the time. 
Behind Saul's chair and throne is a rack holding javelins, 
short swords, etc. 

A lapse of about two years between acts 2d and 3d. 

{Discovered at rise: Merab on veranda; 
Michal and Adora, a, working at cover- 
let, embroidering.) 

Michal. 

Adora, thy fingers are nimble; thou canst ply thy 
needle faster than I. Art thou tired? 

Adora. 
Nay, Princess ; see, we are nearly finished." 

Michal. 
If thou wilt place a pillow for me, I will rest. (Adora 
arranges pillow and takes up work.) Thanks, that is nice. 
Nay, thou shalt do no more. Let us talk. 

Adora. 
I can talk and work, too. 



8z "The Shepherd King" 

MlCHAL. 

An accomplishment that I have not. 

Adora. 
I was taught to work before I could talk. 

Michal. 
And that is why thou art so industrious. 'Twas other- 
wise with me. Thy labor here is light? 

Adora. 
'Tis not labor, but a pleasure, to serve thee, Princess. 

Michal. 
Thou must not say flattering things to me. Flattery 
is a pleasant nectar. It creates a thirst that nothing else 
will satisfy. 

Adora. 
I meant it sincerely. 

Michal. 
I know, Adora; I spoke but in jest. Thou art happy 
here ? 

Adora. 
Happy ! It is like a dream. 

Michal. 

It is now two years that David hath been of our house- 
hold, and so many times did he speak of thy cleverness 
that I desired to have thee for a companion. Besides, 
I could talk to thee of him. (At mention of David's 
name Merab turns and listens.) Dost thou not think him 
changed ? 

Adora. 

Only as the boy changes to the man. The duties of his 
new station may change his manner, but the heart of 



"The Shepherd King" 83 

David will remain the same as when he tended his sheep 
at Bethlehem. 

MlCHAL. 

True, Adora, and dost know that when I think of 
David, it is as he was the first day I saw him, the shep- 
herd boy. 

Adora. 

And I have always thought of him as he is to-day : a 
leader among' men ! 

MlCHAL. 

Thou art very fond of David. (Adora starts with 

work.) He loves thee, too, and speaks of thee as of a 
sister. 

Merab. 
(Coming down R.) Michal, hast thou no other subject 
for thy conversation ? 

MlCHAL. 

Xo, sister ; none that is half so pleasant. Besides, is 
not David's name on every tongue ? 

Merab. 
All the more reason that thou shouldst cool thy ad- 
miration. I tell thee, child, thou art lacking in modesty. 

Michal. 

Nay, Merab; do not scold. (Goes to her, puts anus 
about her waist.) Confess now, that whilst thou wert 
on the balcony thy thoughts were of him. (Runs to ve- 
randa.) See, how gayly the city is decorated! and why? 
Because our David is to return to-day, again a conquerer 
against his foes. The people love him because of his 
service to the King. We love him because — because he 
is David ! 

Merab. 

Foolish child ! 



84 "The Shepherd King" 

MlCHAL. 

And see. ( Taking up embroidered coverlet.) This 
coverlet we have made with our own hands. 'Tis for his 
couch — David's. Dost know the figure ? 

Merab. 

'Tis the double triangle. 

MlCHAL. 

Aye, but dost thou know its meaning ? 

Merab. 
No. 

MlCHAL. 

It is David's amulet, the talisman that secures his suc- 
cess. Is it not so, Adora? 

Adora. 
Yes, he hath carved it upon all his belongings, even 
upon his shield, and wears one made of gold about his 
neck. 

Merab. 
(To MiciiAL.) Thou hast allowed thy mind to become 
too much occupied with David. It would not please our 
father, if he should learn of it; neither would it Prfnce 
Phalti. 

MlCHAL. 

Prince Phalti? 

Merab. 
Thou know est it is his desire to wed thee, and he hath 
the consent of cur father. 

MlCHAL. 

No, no ; it cannot be ! 

Merab. 
Wouldst thou disregard thv father's wishes? 



"The Shepherd King" 85 

MlCHAL. 

In nothing, save the choosing- of a husband. In that, 
I must be consulted. Besides, my father hath promised 
that I should never be forced to marry, other than the 
man I love. And I do not love Prince Phalti. 

Merab. 

Love ! What hast thou to do with love ? 

Michal. 
Nothing, perhaps ; but my heart is very busy with it. 

Merab. 
I could lose my patience with thee. 

Michal. 
Do not do so, dear sister, and I will tell thee a great 
secret. (Going over to Merab.) 

Merab. 
A secret? 

Michal. 
Aye, a great secret, and because it is so great — great 
to me — I will tell thee : / love. 

Merab. 

Love! You? (Laughs.) 

Michal. 
Yes. and am beloved. Canst thou guess by whom? 

Merab. 

I am not good at riddles. 

Michal. 
'Tis David. 



86 "The Shepherd King" 

Merab. 
David ! David ! He hath dared to make love to thee ? 
{Ting l.) 

MlCHAL. 

Aye, even so ; thou knowest David is brave. 

Merab. 
He hath no right! At Elah, when our armies were 
oppressed by the Philistines, and we were reviled by Go- 
liath, our father did promise my hand to the one who 
would slay the giant. 

MlCHAL. 

And when thou did'st see that the victor was but a 
simple shepherd-lad, how thou did'st beg him to recall his 
promise. 

Merab. 

Which he refused to do. 

MlCHAL. 

Aye, at thy request; 'twas David that freed thee. 

Merab. 
Because he had the good wit to know that his station 
would render marriage with the King's daughter impos- 
sible, but now 

MlCHAL. 

Yes, now his station hath improved, and he loves the 
King's younger daughter. 

Merab. 
I tell thee our father will never sanction such a union. 

MlCHAL. 

I do not fear. David returns today. Before he went 
away he gained our father's consent. David can do any- 
thing. Why do you oppose me, sister? Thou hast thy 



"The Shepherd King" 87 

love, Doeg. I love David, have always loved him — aye, 
I think from the first day I beheld him, a simple shepherd- 
boy. 

Merab. 
I have no patience with thee. {Going up stage.) 

Michal. 
Xo one ever has, with those in love. (Over to Adora.) 
No one save thee; thou hast sympathy for me, Adora. 
Come, let us go! (Gathering up work.) 

Merab. 
Xo, remain; it is most likely Prince Phalti, who is 
approaching, wishes to see thee. (Coming dozvn to R.) 

Michal. 
But I must go and fix my hair. 

Merab. 
Think less of thy hair and more of thy duty, child. 

Michal. 
(Moving a little to l.) Adora, run thy deft fingers 
over my head and gather up those unruly strands 
(Adora fixing hair), for I would not shock the Prince by 
the sight of my untidiness. 

(Enter Jonathan and Phalti l. u. e. They 
eomc c, Phalti, c, Jonathan at his R., a 
little back; Merab, r., Michal, l., 
Adora, r., and Michal a little back. 

Phalti. 
(Bozuing to Merab, then going to Michal.) Princess, 
I salute thee ! 

Merab. 
Prince, did success attend thv mission ? 



88 "The Shepherd King" 

Phalti. 

( Turning and stepping toward Merab.) Partially, 
Princess. (Michal X's over to Jonathan.) I have 
gained a promise of sympathy and aid from the South. 

Michal. 
(Aside to Jonathan.) Hast thou heard from David? 

Jonathan. 
Aye, he is but a short distance from the city, and is 
hourly expected. 

Phalti. 
(Who has been examining the work> left c. To 
Merab.) Thy employment? 

Merab. 
Nay, Prince ; 'tis the work of Michal. 

Phalti. 
(To Michal.) Its purpose, Michal? (Merab X's 
to L.) 

Michal. 
'Tis a coverlet. 

Merab. 
(With sarcasm.) For the warrior David, who may 
change to the lover. Thou hadst better be warned, 
Prince. 

Michal. 
(Looks sharp at Merab.) 

Merab. 
Adora, thou may'st assist me. (Bus. for Adora, who 
finally follows.) 

Michal. 
Adora, care for this. (Handing her the coverlet as she 
is going. Adora exits reluctantly.) 



"The Shepherd King" 89 

Phalti. 
Art thou leaving us, too? I had hoped for a chance to 
speak with thee. 

MlCHAL. 

Prince Phalti — I — I have matters to arrange ; David, 
you know, is expected. 

Phalti. 
(Looking after her.) Men have envied me for the sta- 
tion I was born to, for the wealth I have inherited, yet 
how poor am I. My gold will purchase the empty smile, 
the insincere friends, the shallow eulogy ! But the great, 
desired love, my gold cannot buy. 

Jonathan. 
Thou hast my sympathy, for to no man, other than 
David, would I more glady entrust Michal's happiness. 

Phalti. 
I thank thee, Jonathan. So David returns from another 
victory. What was the purpose of this last invasion? 

Jonathan. 
I do not know. I was away at the time. Xews was 
brought me that David had received a command from my 
father to attack the Philistines at the North, where they 
were encamped in large numbers. David had at his com- 
mand but a handful of men. I feared disaster for him and 
hurried home ; would have joined him but my father 
sternly forbade me. 

Phalti. 
I am at a loss to understand the motive for this last 
attack. 

Jonathan. 
(Moving up to veranda.) The expedition was a most 



90 "The Shepherd King" 

dangerous one. I dreaded the result. But again David 
is victorious. 

Phalti. 
Tis wonderful ! No man in all history hath gained so 
high esteem in so short a time. 

Jonathan. 
And well merited ! My father is coming. He will be 
glad to welcome thee ; thou wert always a favorite with 
him. 

Phalti. 
(Looking off. X'ing up to Jonathan.) I have served 
him with my heart. I honor him as our King. (Looking 
off.) But, O Jonathan, how T changed; his malady 
hath sapped his power. My heart grieves with thine. 

Jonathan. 
I can no longer hide from myself the awful truth. The 
noble impulses that made him Israel's just and merciful 
ruler have disappeared. 

Phalti. 
See, that Edomite Doeg hath joined him. 

Jonathan. 
Aye, he is now my father's confidential adviser, and his 
word will carry more than mine. 

Phalti. 
And I tell thee, Jonathan, he is a man to be feared. He 
hath evil in his face. 

Jonathan. 
I dislike him, but I am powerless; his influence with my 
father is great, and grows stronger each day. 



"The Shepherd King" 91 

Phalti. 

He is a man that would stop at nothing to gain his pur- 
pose. 

Jonathan. 
Peace! They are here. (Both move to R.) 

Saul. 
(Enters, followed by Doeg. They come to c. Jona- 
than and Phalti bow low. Doeg, who is at Saul's r.,. 
salutes. X's to royal chair, places Saul's javelin beside 
it. Salutes and exits out l. 2.) 

Saul. 
(c.) Jonathan, my son! Greeting, Prince! I was 
gratified to hear of thy safe return. 

Phalti. 
For thy interest in thy servant, I thank thee, O King! 

"Saul. 

{X'ing to liis chair, r. 2.) Did success attend thy mis- 
sion ? 

Phalti. 

(In front of Saul. Jonathan is at Saul's l. ) Most 
gratifying ! As thy messenger I was received with all 
honor by the King of Hainan And when it was known 
that I came on an embassy of friendship great was the 
respect paid me by Toi and his son Joram. Thy name, 
O King, is held by them in great honor. 

Saul. 
And we may purchase from them the implements of 
war we so sadly need? 

Phalti. 
Already their armor makers are at work. 



92 "The Shepherd King" 

Saul. 
Tis well ; I shall give thee an audience and have thee 
recount me all thou hast seen. 

Phalti. 
And now, if thou wilt grant me leave, O King, I will 
retire, and return to be present at thy reception of David ! 

Saul. 
(At mention of David's name, manner changes.) 
David ! 

Phalti. 
Have I leave to depart? (Bozving low.) 

Saul. 
Peace be with thee ! 

Phalti. 
Jonathan, I salute thee ! 

Jonathan. 
( Who is at Saul's l.) Peace to thee, Prince! 

Phalti. 
(Exits L. 2.) 

Saul. 
So they will send us armor. They remember what I 
once did for them. A man's good deeds do not always 
die! 

Jonathan. 
Good deeds often fall on barren soil, but they never 
perish. Time fosters them and they bloom forth, bringing 
gladness unto all men. 

Saul. 
{Petitioner steps forward, handing scroll to Saul.) 
The successor of Nahash, the Ammonite, doth offer fealty 
to us ! That was thy first experience of war, Jonathan. 



"The Shepherd King" 93 

And nobly didst thou prove thyself. I was proud of. thee, 
my son ! When our armies had so severely smote the foe, 
that two of them were not left together, the leaders were 
brought before me and I did spare their lives, tho' con- 
trary to our customs, 

Jonathan. 
Twas justice tempered with mercy! 

Saul. 
Then it was that Israel proclaimed me King. But the 
displeasure of Jehovah is. upon me, and Samuel proph- 
esied long ago tbat none of my blood should ever reign 
again! {Bows his h cad.) 

Jonathan. 
Grieve not, my father, all may yet be well. 

Saul. 
Tis not for myself I grieve, 'tis that thou, through no 
fault of thine, shalt never wear the crown and rule upon 
my throne when I am gone. 

Jonathan. 
Father, thou hast many years before thee ; lay up for 
thyself peace of mind. And when Death's angel takes the 
royal scepter from thy hand, thy son's sorrow will be 
for the loss of the King, his father, not the crown ! 

Saul. 
But why should we allow another to usurp thy place? 
I am the King ! Thou art my son, beloved by the people 
of Israel and Judah. We will gird on our armor and 
fight for thy rights. Let the High Priest proclaim whom 
he may. ( Very excited. ) 

■— , , Jonathan. 

Father ! 



S4 "The Shepherd King" 

Saul. 
I tell thee, Jonathan, since Samuel is dead all fear is 

gone from me. I am stronger than I was, and 

(Faint sounds of trumpets, cymbals and sing- 
ing heard, which very gradually increase till 
David's entrance.) 

Saul. 
Hast thou ever heard the name of my successor? 

Jonathan. 

It is said that his name was never proclaimed by the 
prophet. 

Saul. 
Shall I tell thee what fear is in my heart? Aye, the 
hatred of it doth drive me mad ! Listen ; canst thou not 
hear the welcoming blasts of trumpets, the clash of cym- 
bals, the gay voices singing songs of praise ? Is it a greet- 
ing for the King? No, the King is forgot! For whom 
then? 

Jonathan. 
For David, father! 

Saul. 
Aye, David! David! How I have grown to hate that 
name! 

Jonathan. 
Conquer thy hatred. Thou hast no more loyal subject 
in all thy realm than David. 

Saul. 
Thou art a fool! (Rising in his chair.) 

Jonathan. 

Father ! 

Saul. 
I tell thee, Jonathan, this man that thou hast taken to 



"The Shepherd King" 95 

thy bosom is the serpent that will turn and sting thee. 
He would make thee but a stepping stone to his ambition. 

Jonathan. 
David hath but one thought — to serve Israel and the 
King ! 

Saul. 
Go ! If David is thy choice, look no more to me. 

Jonathan. 
(Kneels before Saul.) Noble father, am I not your 
loving son ? 

Saul. 
More loving than loyal. 

(Doeg enters.) 

Saul. 
Go ! Thou hast exhausted my patience ! 

Jonathan. 
(Boivs low 'j turns and X's, exit l.) 

Saul. 
Stay! What would'st thou say were thy friend David 
to usurp thy place and reign over thee? 

Jonathan. 
(At entrance, turns.) If such be the will of Jehovah 
I will rejoice and serve him as loyally as I serve thee, my 
father. (Exits.) 

Doeg. 
(Who Jias remained back till Jonathan'.? exit. Comes 
before Saul.) David is entering the city gates. 

Saul. 
Thus have our plans failed, and recoiled upon our 
heads. The man we hoped to send to his death re- 



96 "The Shepherd King" 

turns, again a victor, and instead of mock lamentations 
we must smile and rejoice. 

DOEG. 

The plan would not have failed but for the interference 
of the Priest Ahimelech. 

Saul. 
Ahimelech warned David ! 

Doeg. 
Ave, he learned of the plot, and sent a messenger, who 
overtook him before he reached the Philistines. 

Saul. 
Command two soldiers to go in search of Ahimelech. 
Bring him before me. If he refuses, make him a prisoner. 

Doeg. 
Thy command shall be obeyed, O King. 

Saul. 
Did'st thou warn the enemy of David's approach ? 

Doeg. 

I sent a message to them, giving full particulars, but 

being warned, he did so divide his forces and attacked 

them from all sides with such fierce assault that panic 

seized the Philistines and they fled, leaving half their 

number dead. - 

Saul. 

If I did not hate, I could love him for his deeds! Why 

dost thou hate him ? 

Doeg. 

Tt is my duty. 1 know that he is thy enemy. 

Saul. 
Enemy! Ah, true! And when he is before me I hate 
him most ; 'tis then I long to thrust him through. 



"The Shepherd King" 97 

(Flourish of trumpets. Increase of voices.) 

Saul. 
Hark ! The trumpets sound his approach. Away, and 
make ready the guard ! 

(Doeg exits.) 

Saul. 
Can it be that the man that I would slay is the one 
selected to succeed me? (Flourish. Saul goes up ve- 
randa.) What a sight ! How it tingles the blood ! Again 
I see my younger self in the man I would destroy. How 
gracefully he sits his steed, man and horse one, uncon- 
scious of the gaze of the throng (coming down), yet I 
would that he were dead ! Why is it that I am tormented 
with this man? (Sinks on couch. Pause.) Samuel, why 
did'st thou desert me! (Sinks head in hands.) 

Michal. 
(Enters with armful of lilies, followed by 
Adora. Goes toward veranda. As she 
turns to speak to Adora, sees her father. 
Hands flowers over to Adora, who goes on 
■veranda. Michal ?oes and kneels beside 



Saul.) 



Michal. 



Father ! 

Saul. 
(Raising his head.) Ah, Michal, my daughter! 

Michal. 

I fear thou art not well. 

Saul. 
And would'st thou care? 



9§ "The Shepherd King" 

MlCHAL. 

Father, how canst thou ask ? Thou knowest that I love 
thee. 

Saul. 

I spoke but idly, for thou wert always my favorite, and 
understood me best. Art thou happy? 

Michal. 
Aye, father, so happy ! Have not my prayers been 
answered? 

Saul. 
"What prayers ? 

Michal. 
I prayed that he would return unharmed. 

Saul. 
David ! And thou dost love him so ? 

Michal. 
More than life. 

Saul. 
Even were he thy father's enemy? 

Michal. 
Thy enemy! Impossible! He doth love thee. There 
is none so noble as David, save my brother. (Flourish 
of t nun pets.) He is here, within our court. I'll run and 
shower him with flowers. (Runs and takes flowers from 
Adora. Bus. of throwing them from balcony.) 

(Business: Doec enters; a guard has been 
placed on King's entrance — four in all — is 
placed at each pillar. Ozem at the one, l. 
c; balance of guard stand r. and l. of 
throne. Doeg at Saul's l.) 



"The Shepherd King" 99 

Saul. 
(To Doeg.) This joy, this gladness, at David's return. 
Is it real ? 

Doeg. 
Nay, O King. 'Tis but fleeting enthusiasm. David 
with a master's hand hath appealed to their vanities. 

OZEM. 

(To Adora, speaking in low tone, but holding his posi- 
tion as soldier on guard.) Adora! 

Adora. 
( After giving flowers to Michal, has seated herself on 
steps of veranda.) Yes, Ozem. 

OZEM. 

( To Adora. ) Canst thou not say the word and make 
me happy? 

Saul. 

Think you that my vision hath been distorted ; that, 
after all, he may be loyal ? 

Doeg. 
Nay, O King! Thou art right in thy judgment of this 
man. Other eyes than mine have seen his duplicity. His 
homage to thee is but a show. 

Adora. 
Ozem, I will try and make thee a good wife. 

Ozem. 
Bless thee, Adora. 

(Grand flourish.) 

Doeg. 
(To Saul.) He is here! 

Saul. 
I will not remain to receive him. I will not speak words 



ioo "The Shepherd King" 

of thanks and welcome to the man I hate ! Come ! 
(Rises.) 

Jonathan. 
(Enters and goes to Saul. Kneels.) Noble father, 
David hath entered the palace, and is preparing to come 
before thee. 

Saul. 
Then canst thou receive the serpent, for I will have 
none of him. Away ! 

Jonathan. 
If the King should slight the man that hath served him 
so well, it would be remarked by all Israel. 

Saul. 
I care not ! Am I not the King ? 

Jonathan. 
I plead with thee, the King, for what I know to be 
right. 

Saul. 
Enough ! I'll hear no more. Thou art a rebellious son. 
Lead on! (Exits, followed by Doeg and guard.) 

(As Saul exits enter Piialti.) 

Phaltl 
(Comes down to Jonathan.) The King hath with- 
drawn ? 

Jonathan. 
Aye. 

Phaltl 
And will not receive David? 

Jonathan. 
I besought him in vain. His dislike for David hath so 
increased that he no longer tries to Jiide it. 



"The Shepherd King" 101 

(Business: Phalti leaves Jonathan and 
returns to back stage. Jonathan stands l. 
of throne. Singers and dancers come on. 
All work e. e. for David's entrance. Shouts 
of welcome, "Hail to David !" "Elah's 
hero!" etc. First dancers come on, then 
others slowly. When dance is half over 
David and his guard enter.) 

David. 
(Enters, gives general salute, comes direct to c. Sees 
vacant throne. SJwws his disappointment. Jonathan 
comes forward to him with hands outstretched.) Jona- 
than ! 

Jonathan. 
Welcome, David ! 

(Business: Music. David and Jonathan, 
back to audience. Jonathan's arm is about 
David's shoulder. David dismisses dancers. 
Characters withdrazv, so by time of David's 
scene with Jonathan stage nearly clear.) 

David. 
Daughters and men of Israel and Judah, I thank thee 
for thy greeting. In thy welcome to me thou must not 
forget the King, whose servant I am. Retire, I pray thee. 

(They exit shouting. Shouts dying away as 
David continues.) 

David. 
Jonathan, I desire to see the King. 

Jonathan. 
David, my father hath retired. I am sorry, but he re- 
fused to sfive thee audience. 



102 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 

I promised my officers they should receive the King's 
own thanks. Their valor deserves no less. 

Jonathan. 
I will again appeal to my father. Thy wish shall yet be 
granted. 

Doeg. 
(Enters l. u. e. ) The King doth refuse thee audience. 

David. 
(Tunis away.) 

Doeg. 
Thy success would have been greater had'st thou failed 
to return. 

David. 
(In fury.) Leave me or speak with more respect. 

Doeg. 
Who art thou, that I should approach with bended 
knee ? 

David. 
I am David ! I serve Israel and the King, as an Israel- 
ite. Thy service to Israel is paid for in gold. Thou dost 
pander for the King's favor with lies ! 

Doeg. 
And thou dost sing thy own praises before the people 
to gain their favor, putting thyself before the King thou 
dost pretend to serve ! 

David. 
Thou liest ! 

Doeg. 
Thy place is back with the sheep. I have warned the 
King of thy treacherous ambition. 



"The Shepherd King" 103 

David. 

Thou lying dog of an Edomite ! (Draws sword and 
makes a start.) 

Jonathan. 
Hold, David ! Do not stain thy sword with his venom- 
ous blood. 

David. 
( Turns up stage, l. ) 

Jonathan. 
If thou hast no duties here, go! 

DoEG. 
Prince Jonathan, I serve the King, and would serve 
thee better than the man that doth steal thy place in the 
hearts of the people. 

Jonathan. 
I know the worth of thy services. Go! 

Doeg. 
{Cringes and exits.) 

Jonathan. 
David, thou hast much to bear ! Hast thou seen 
Michal? 

David. 
Yes, I saw her first of all. She came to greet me on the 
way. Oh, Jonathan, I love thy sister, and now the insults 
of this Edomite lose their sting, because Michal will to- 
dav become my wife. All, Jonathan, promise me thy feel- 
ings toward me will never change ! 

Jonathan. 
Xever, for I know thee, David ! Aye, and know the 
secret that thou hast locked in thy breast, for fear it 
should wound thy friend. 



104 "The Shepherd King" 

Merab. 
(Enters and overhears scene.) 

David. 
My secret ! What dost thou mean ? 

Jonathan. 
Thou art to be King. 

David. 
Prince Jonathan, make me not a traitor. Such a thought 
hath never entered my mind. I swear it. 

Jonathan. 
I believe thee. But from the day that thou did'st come 
to our camp, I knew it. 

David. 
Knew that I was to be King ? To take thy place ! To 
rob thee, my best and dearest friend! No, Jonathan; 
sooner would I, to-day, leave thee and all I hold so dear, 
and return to my sheep upon the hills, than stand a mo- 
ment between thee and thine inheritance. 

Jonathan. 
Nay, David, thou dost not rob me. Tis the will of 
Jehovah. The prophet Samuel anointed thee. Thou art 
destined to rule, and I glory in Heaven's choice, as will 
all Israel. 

David. 
But the anointing of which thou speakest was not to 
make me King. 'Twas but the favor of the good prophet, 
that I might become a wise and valiant man. 

Jonathan. 

So you thought But my heart hath discerned the 

truth. Thou wilt one day know it, too. 



"The Shepherd King" 105 

David. 
And knowing all this, thou did'st take me by the hand 
and place thy mantle about me ! Noble Jonathan ! What 
do I not owe thee ! 

Jonathan. 
The nobility of thy heart hath many times repaid me ! 
Speak no more of it. Now I will go to my father and 
prevail with him to grant thee audience. (Going r. ) 

David. 
Jonathan! {Jonathan turns.) My friend! 

Jonathan. 
My brother! 

David. 
Thro' life! 

Jonathan. 
Thro' death ! 

David and Jonathan. 
Thro' eternity! (Picture for a second. Jonathan 
exits R.) 

Merab. 
(Coming down l.) David! 

David. 
(David turns; conies forward and kisses her hand.) 
Ah, Princess ! Greeting ! 

Merab. 
Thou art more welcome, David, than the tidings that 
told of thy victory. 

David. 
I thank thee. 

Merab. 
(Dropping on couch, R.) I have been greatly con- 
cerned for thy safety, David! 



106 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
Princess ? 

Merab. 
My interest in thee began when thy youthful valor put 
our army to shame, and it hath increased with thy ad- 
vancement. When I hear the multitude hail thee as their 
hero I rejoice with them. 

David. 
I never thought, Princess, that thou wert interested in 
me except for my service to thy father^ the King. 

Merab. 
That was thy mistake. Wilt thou not sit by me? 
(David does so.) David, thou art destined for greater 
things. 

David. 
Princess, there can be nothing greatei than to serve 
Israel — to serve the King. 

Merab. 
The King doth not value thy devotion. 

David. 
I do my duty, with no thought of reward. 

Merab. 
Thou hast ambition? 

David. 
? Tis not ambition. My one thought is for Israel! 

Merab. 
I could reconcile my father to thee ! The knowledge 
that another not of his own blood shall reign hath em- 
bittered him. Thou art the one he regards with sus- 
picion. 



"The Shepherd King" 107 

David. 

No act of mine could have engendered such a thought. 
Tis the work of lying- cowards that surround him. 

Merab. 

Thou art beloved by the people. Aye, even more than 
my brother Jonathan. David, I would see thee King ! 

David. 
Princess I (Rises quickly.) 

Merab. 
(Catching him by the arm.) I love thee, David! 

n* , ■ . , , David. 

1 hou lovest me ! 

Merab. 

With the passionate love of my soul. If thou had'st 

not allowed thy insipid fancy for Michal to blind thee, 

thou would'st have seen it. I can give thee all that thou 

desireth. My love would give thee strength and power. 

Let me go to my father and plead with him. When he 

knows that I am to be thy wife he will become reconciled ; 

thy way will be smooth. (Throwing her arms about his 

neck. ) David ! David ! I love thee ! 

David. 
(Disengaging her arms.) Princess! Merab ! No 
more, I pray you. Forget thy words, as I will. Thou 
knowest that my love is given to thy sister Michal. And 
not for ten thousand kingdoms would I yield to thee. 

Merab. 
Thou dost scorn my love? 

David. 
Nay, Princess, I honor thee highly. But I love thy 
sister Michal. 



io8 "The Shepherd King" 

Merab. 
My father will never consent to the union. 

David. 
His consent hath been given. 

(Enter Jonathan, Michal and Doeg. Doeg 
X's to Merab.) 

David. 
(Boies to Princess and X's up to Michal, c.) 

Doeg. 
(To Merab.) Thou art troubled? 

Merab. 
Thou sayest that thou lovest me? 

Doeg. 
Hath not my devotion given thee proof? 

Merab. 
That man I now hate. The day that he is driven from 
our Court I will be thy wife. (Exits, l.) 

Doeg. 
(Exits with Merab.) 

Jonathan. 
The King will receive thee and thy officers with honor. 
I go to prepare thy men. 

David. 
I thank thee, Jonathan. 

Michal. 
T have longed to see and speak with thee. Hast thou 
thought of me, David? 

David. 
Thought of thee ! Everv moment that I have been from 



"The Shepherd King" 109 

thee thy sweet face hath been before me. Had I been 
free to follow the impulse of my heart I would have left 
glory behind and rushed to thee, folding- thee in my arms 
(Bus.) as I do now. 

Michal. 
I love thee, David ! 

David. 
There is nothing thou could'st say that would sound 
half so sweet. 

Michal. 
I have loved thee since — since — well, I cannot tell just 
when. 

David. 
My love for thee began, dearest, the day that I first saw 
thee and looked into thine eyes. 

Michal. 
Yes, yes! The day thou did'st gain the rose. Dost 
thou remember, David? 

David. 
Do I remember ? Aye, behind this breastplate now, over 
my heart, it lies, withered, yet fragrant with memory of 
that first day. 

Michal. 
During thy absence I have prayed that no harm should 
befall thee. For thou art my life, my King, my David ! 

David. 
And thou, my Princess, thou art mine ! Mine, my 
Michal. (Flourish. Kisses her.) I must leave thee now 
and return to my men. (Leading her up back, with his 
arm about her.) 

Michal. 
To-day our father will announce our nuptials? 



no "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
He hath so promised. Two years have I waited and 
now thou art mine at last. 

(Flourish is heard. Merab enters and sits 
on couch.) 

David. 
(Kisses her. Takes both her hands; kisses them.) 
Mine at last! (Exit.) 

Michal. 

(Stands looking after him, till Merab speaks.) 

Merab. 

So, so ! A secret meeting with thy lover. 

Michal. 

Nay, sister, not secret, for to-day all Israel will know 
1 am to he his wife. 

Merab. 
This David, that thou dost love, is an enemy to our 
father. 

Michal. 
Thou dost speak falsely, and with bitterness. Thou 
knowest David is loyal. 

Merab. 
Nevertheless he shall not wed thee. (X'ing, r.) 

Michal. 

Thou canst not prevent it. Our father hath given his 
word. 

Merab. 

Then I shall counsel him to withdraw it. David is a 
traitor to me and to his King. 

Michal. 
Merab, how can'st thou say it! Thou dost speak in 



"The Shepherd King" in 

spite. Tis thy (Looks at Merab.) Thou dost lo've 

David ! 

Merab. 
Love ! Ah ! Ha, ha ! I hate him ! 

M ECHAL. 

Hate, that is born of thy wicked jealousy. (Over, and 
kneels before Merab.) Merab, my sister, thou canst not 
be so cruel. Thou knowest how much I love him. Say 
thou wilt not do it. 

Merab. 

I will do all I have said. 

jMichal. 
Then will I appeal to our brother Jonathan. 

(Business: Grand flourish. Enter Saul 
extras. Two heralds enter; stand one on 
each side of arch, l. u. e. With the others 
enter Phalti and Adora. Phalti X's be- 
fore Princesses, salutes them, then X's and 
takes place, l. 2. Adora takes her position, 
l. of throne. Heralds blow a flourish. 
Enter Jonathan at head of house guard. 
His men divide, a man standing guard at 
each arch at the back and along the l. 
Ozem is at the extreme l. Jonathan takes 
his position L. 2. Michal X's over to him, 
and sits on couch l_ Flourish. Doeg enters 
with body-guard, and arranges in two col- 
umns, facing each other, and diagonally 
from the throne to l. u. e. * Double flourish. 
Saul enters attended by his armor bearer 
and in the rear of him two Nubians. He 
X's direct to his throne. 



ii2 "The Shepherd King" 

Then follows music for David's entrance, as 
body-guard fall in and take their position 
at the r. of the throne. Doeg is at Saul's 
l. hand. Flourish. Double flourish. 

Omnes. 

(Shouts outside of "Hail to David, Elah's hero," etc. 
Outside barely discernible is heard singing.) 

David. 
(Enters zvith officers; gives general salute to assembly ; 
goes direct to, and kneels before Saul.) Thy servant 
hath returned, and would do homage to his King ! 

Saul. 
I — I — greet thee ! Rise ! 

(Singing has become louder and is taken up 
by those on stage, "David hath slain his 
tens of thousands" etc.) 

Doeg. 
(Pause for song. Aside to Saul.) Canst thou dis- 
tinguish the words, O King ? 

David. 
{Motions to Jonathan, who goes up and 
gives signal for silence.) 

Saul. 
(Anger increases as he listens to song.) Thy admirers 
have ascribed to thee tens of thousands ; to me they have 
ascribed but thousands ! What more canst thou wish but 
my throne? 

David. 
Pardon, O King! the singers had no thought to offend. 
The foolish words of the song have no meaning. 



"The Shepherd King" 113 

Saul. 
How am I to be sure of that ? 

David. 
Never doubt, O King, that thy servant, David is loyal 
to thee ; and honors thee as the appointed King of Israel. 

Saul. 
What would'st thou have of me ? 

David. 
Thy commands have been obeyed, but only a third of 
our number have returned. Every man fought for the 
glory of Israel. And I did assure them of thy personal 
thanks. They are here. 

Saul. 
And when was it that Saul ever failed to appreciate 
the valor of his army? 

David. 

Never, O King ! 

Saul. 
Yet thou dost assure them that thou wilt obtain what is 
theirs already ! Fie ! Thou dost pander for thy personal 
gain ! 

David. 
Thou dost me wrong, O King ! All the reward I claim 
for myself is the fulfillment of thy promise — thy daugh- 
ter Michal. 

Merab. . 
(Rising and coming c.) That cannot be! 

Michal and Jonathan. 
Merab! 

David. 
(Steps back — astounded.) 



ii4 "The Shepherd King" 

Merab. 
(Before Saul.) Noble father, thou wilt not welcome 
to thy household one that thou knowest to be thy enemy ? 

Michal. 
Merab, thou dost speak with envy. 

Merab. 
(c.) To become the King's son-in-law is a step to 
further his own advancement. The love that he hath 
sworn to thee was rejected by me. 

David. 
(l. c.) Princess Merab, thy words are false! 

Jonathan. 
(Stepping forward, and taking Michal.) Shame upon 
thee, Merab ! Thy words are but the echo of thy jealous 
spirit! (Leads Michal l.) 

Saul. 
No more! (To David.) Thou hast divided my house 
against me. I'll bring it to an end. Prince Phalti ! 
(Phalti steps forward.) Thou hast long desired my 
daughter's hand — take her, and see that thou dost keep 
her to thyself ! 

Jonathan. 
Father, thou canst not forswear thy solemn promise 
given to David. 

Phalti. 
I beg of thee, O King; pause in thy command! Thy 
daughter's heart is in the keeping of a man more worthy 
than I ! 

Michal. 
O noble father, unsay thy words ! I love David ! (Runs 
and clings to David.) 



"The Shepherd King" 115 

Saul. 
I have spoken. 

David. 
(c.) O King, art thou so cruel? Do not sully thy 
name by so unjust an act. Thou hast allowed lying coun- 
cil to warp thy better judgment. I, thy servant, David, 
plead to thee for justice! 

Ahimelech. 
{Noise outside. Is brought on between two 
guards. ) 

Saul. 
I'll hear no more ; she shall be wife to Prince Phalti ! 

MlCHAL. 

(Rushes across to Jonathan.) Oh, my brother, 
canst thou do nothing? 

(Business: Jonathan passes Michal to 
Phalti. She weeps on couch. As Ahim- 
elech reaches c, general exclamation from 
assembly.) 

Ahimelech. 
My lord, the King! Why am I, a priest of God, sub- 
jected to such indignity? 

Saul. 
Because it is my will ! 

Ahimelech. 
Thou hast transcended thy rule._ Over the Priesthood 
thou hast no power. 

Saul. 
Thou hast allowed thyself to interfere with thy King's 
affairs. 

Ahimelech. 
Thv words are not true ! 



u6 "The Shepherd King" 

Saul. 
And amongst the people thou hast spoken of this David 
as the favorite of Samuel. 

Ahimelech. 
Thy words are not true ! 

Saul. 
Thou settest him before me in the hearts of the people. 

Ahimelech. 
And who is so faithful of all thy servants as David ? 

Saul. 
Dost thou dare to give me the lie? 

Ahimelech. 
Thou hast attributed to thy servant deeds that thou 
knowest to be false. 

Saul. 
I will have thee scourged ! Thou mischievous priest ! 

Jonathan. 

Forbear, O King ! Such an act would blacken thy 
name forever ! 

Saul. 
Doeg, obey my commands ! 

Doeg. 
(Makes move to obey.) 

David. 
Back, thou hireling! Else I will call on the men of 
Israel and Judah to restrain thee! (c.) Let thy anger be 
against me, O King ! but not against this priest ! 

Saul. 
I know thee not. 



"The Shepherd King" 117 

David. 
I am David, the shepherd boy, that at the Vale of Elah 
thou did'st take by the hand — I loved thee — and despite 
thy unjust anger against me, I love and honor thee still. 

Saul. 
Thou liest ! Thou would' st start mutiny among my 
people ! 

David. 
If in deed or thought, thou canst prove treason against 
me, let my life be forfeited. Ask of these comrades — 
officers of thy army — by whose side I have fought many 
battles. (Tunis to soldiers.) Men of Israel and judah, 
is it not true that I have served the King well ? 

Soldiers. 
Aye! Aye! 
Long live David ! 
Long live our captain ! 

David. 
The best that was in me, have I not given to Israel ? 

Saul. 

(Hurls javelin at David.) 

(Business: Adora, who is at R. of King, has 
been intently watching Saul — simultaneous 
with his action of throwing javelin- 
springs forward with a cry, "David!" re- 
ceives javelin, facing Saul. An exclama- 
tion from all. Michal screams and sinks 
her face in her hands. David wheels 
around in time to catch Adora. Ozem, 
after other exclamations, utters smothered 
cry. His javelin is seen to tremble in his 
hand. 



n8 "The Shepherd King" 

Adora. 
(In David's arms, after his business.) 'Twas for thee, 
David! (Dies.) 

OZEM. 

(Lets his spear drop. Comes forward with 
his arms outstretched. David places 
Adora in his arms. He turns and exits, 
l. u. e., followed by maidens. 

Jonathan. 
(Motions to guard behind Ahimelech. They 
exit with Ahimelech.) 

David. 
Oh, thou wicked King ! Now art thou fallen, indeed ! 

-.., , Saul. 

Silence ! 

David. 
No longer will I keep silent ! but tell thee, thou art ac- 
cursed ! 

Saul. 
Accursed ! 

David. 
Here, thou sittest on the throne, the choice of God and 
the people. Thy opportunities have been great. How 
hast thou used them? In thy unholy anger thou hast 
stained thy hands with the blood of the innocent. Thou 
mightest have been the light of Israel, but thy heart is 
black ! 

Saul. 
Out of my sight ! Go ! 

David. 
Gladly will I leave thy God- forsaken presence. I would 
sooner once more be a simple shepherd on the hills of 
Bethlehem than live longer in thy sight ! 



"The Shepherd King" 119 

DOEG. 

(Approaching.) Silence thy tongue, else I will deliver 
thee to the guard ! 

David. 

Away from me, thou cursed, lying, crawling thing! It 
is thy duplicity that hath kindled the King's hate against 
me. (To soldiers.) Men of Israel, no longer can I lead 
thee! (Throws off sword.) 

Soldiers. 
Thou shalt not go! 
Slay the dog of an Edomite ! 
We'll have no other leader but thee ! 

Michal. 
(Runs to David. Merab stops her.) David! David! 

David. 
My love is thine forever ! Jonathan, protect her ! 

Jonathan. 
(Takes Michal from Merab.) David, stay 



David. 
No more ! No more ! My cup is full ! 

Saul. 
Away, before I kill thee ! 

David. 
I do not fear for my life, O King! Thou art living out 
thy destiny ! Thy sins have placed a cloud upon thy 
mind ! Thy evil spirit rules thee ! Thou hast wronged me 
beyond endurance! I love thy daughter, Michal, better 
than my life! (Michal calls David! David! and falls.) 
Thy son, only as one man can love another. Pity for thy 
madness alone saves thee. Let it not reach the ears of 



120 "The Shepherd King" 

Askelon. Tell it not in Gath, else the daughters of the 
Philistines will rejoice, and their armies will come upon 
thee and encamp here in thy palace. Farewell ! Farewell ! 
(Rushes off l. ) 

Saul. 

(Spellbound.) 

(A T ot a soul moves; everybody spellbound.) 

Quick curtain. 



END OF THIRD ACT. 



CHARACTERS USED IX THE FOURTH ACT. 



Scene i. 
The Witch of Endor. 
David. 
Saul. 
Doeg. 
Samuel. 

Scene 2. 

Saul. 

Ozem. 

The High Priest. 

Eliah. 

Prince Phalti. 

Shammah. 

Guard. 

Michal. 

Merab. 

and 

David, who becomes the King. 

Soldiers, Servants, and People from the City of Gibeah. 



ACT FOURTH. 

Scene I. — Cave of Witch of Endor. David discovered 
asleep on bundle of straw. 

Witch. 
(Discovered hovering over fire, r., szvaying to and fro, 
muttering; rises, gets sticks of kindling from back; 
throzvs zvood on fire, then peers in kettle; mutters. ) All 
of no avail! I have tried, and tried! Yet thou wilt give 
no sign. (Goes to c; sits for a minute, then gets up; 
raises her hands above her.) Ahmuluda! Ahmuluda ! 
If only thy spirit, of all the countless hordes that hover 
about, would come to me ! I have waited, waited ! Years 
have passed! But thou wilt not come! (Rocks to and 
fro, muttering Ahmuluda! Ahmuluda! Suddenly stops; 
looks toivards l., then moves back in shadow.) 

David. 
(Rising up, looks about him, then X's to l. Looks 
out.) The storm hath passed. I must continue my 
journey. 

Witch. 
(Coming r. c.) Ha! Ha! Journey! Hast thou a 

journey? 

David. 
Aye, good woman. 

Witch. 
The journeys in life are short. They do not tire us. 
'Tis the long, long journey of death that gives no rest. 
Listen ! Canst thou hear ? 



124 "The Shepherd King" 

David. 
I hear nothing. 

Witch. 
Listen! {Wind effect.) Now? 

David. 
'Tis nothing but the wind. 

Witch. 
Nay, the wind hath no sound. Tis the cry of the rest- 
less spirits that thou nearest. Screech ! Screech ! No rest ! 
No rest for their wearied souls ! The wind bears them 
on ; like the ceaseless waters. The moon doth gaze upon 
them as they pass, but they can not tarry in their end- 
less flight, but must forever on. On! Ha! Ha! (Wails.) 
Ahmuluda ! Ahmuluda ! 

David. 
Who is Ahmuluda, that thou dost call upon? 

Witch. 
One who was as fair and straight as thou. The spirits 
took him away from me. Long years have I waited, but 
he will not come. 

David, 
Thy son ? 

Witch. 
Son ? Son ? Aye, that was it ! My son ! Ahmuluda ! 
Ahmuluda ! 

He is dead ? 

Witch. 
So thou dost call it. But I know that he is there. 
{Points off l.) Out there in the wind, with the count- 
less numbers. „ 

David. 

Hast thou the power to recall the dead? 



"The Shepherd King" 125 

Witch. 

Many have obeyed my will; but not Ahmuluda. 

David. 
Thou hast a "familiar spirit?" 

Witch. 
Sh ! Sh ! Thou should'st not speak so, for thou wilt 
imperil my life. Know ye not, that Saul hath banished 
from the land, all who hold communion with the dead? 

David. 
Thou need'st not fear of me, for I like thee, am hunted 
down by Saul, with a price upon my life. 

Witch. 
And was in the gloomy forest that thou did'st seek 
concealment ? 

David. 
I was journeying- from the wilderness of Engedi, on 
my way to the Palace. 

Witch. 
There thou wilt meet thy enemy, the King ! 

David. 
Xo longer shall I fear. For months have I hidden from 
him. Now I am going back, back to the woman that I 
love. She has sent a messenger to me, who told me that 
she mourns ; that she is in sore distress and needs my 
protection. 'Tis the King's own daughter ; but were he 
fifty times a King my heart would obey her call. Oh, if 
thou canst divine the future, tell me, I beseech, if hope 
and happiness are in store for me ! 

• Witch. 
Thou art brave. Thou dost well to no longer fear 
Saul. The spirits that hover about thee are all powerful. 



126 "The Shepherd King" 

Thy years are many. Thou art to be a glory. Thou art 
to be — Sh ! Sh ! (X's to l. Listens.) Two are com- 
ing — their steps are directed here ; they may be spies, sent 
by the King to hunt me. (Listens.) No! No! They 
come with tormented souls ! They come to seek consola- 
tion from the Witch of Endor ! Ha ! Ha ! (Pause; sound 
of gravel rolling down run l.) 

Doeg. 
(Outside.) This is the place; aye, here is the opening. 

David. 
(Aside.) That voice! Tis Doeg, the Edomite ! 

Witch. 
Hide! Hide! (Motions him to crevice in rock l.) 

Doeg. 
(Coining down run.) A fitting habitation, truly. (En- 
ters, followed by Saul.) 

Saul. 
And is it here, that the woman thou toldst me of resides ? 

Doeg. 
Aye, and it is said that she can recall the souls of the 
dead, and at her command their spirits speak. 

(Business: During dialogue David has glided 
to opening, assisted by the Witch, and he 
makes his escape. At the noise of his exit 
Doeg and Saul are startled.) 

Doeg. 
What was that? (Draws szvord, and rushes to 
opening L. ) 

Witch. 
(Stands before him, barring the way.) Ha! Ha! Ha! 
W T ho art thou that doth draw thy sword so fiercely ? 



"The Shepherd King" 127 

Doeg. 
We seek a woman who hath a familiar spirit. 

Witch. 
Then go thy way and seek her. Thou wilt not find her 
here. (Chuckling, X's to r.) 

DOEG. 

Art thou not the Witch of Endor? 

Witch. 
(Tunis 011 him fiercely.) I am no witch! Thou 
knowest that the King hath driven all whom thou 
dost call witches from his realm ! Art thou spies, that 
intrude thyselves, like thieves in the night, upon me? 
This abode doth give me shelter. I trouble no man. Away 
with thee ! Thou canst not entrap me ! (Goes r.) 

Doeg. 
We mean thee no harm, but come to thee in honesty, 
and will reward thee well for thy service. 

Witch. 
I have no service to render thee ! 

Doeg. 
Thou liest ! For thou art the Witch of Endor ! 

Witch. 
Lies ! Lies ! Lies ! Well, thou shouldst know, for thy 
life is built on lies ! Thy tongue hath never spoken truth 
to any man ! The spirits that gather about thee are devil's 
imps ! Away ! I would have none of thee ! 

Doeg. 
Cease thy mouthings, else I (Starts.) 

Witch. 
Lav but thy hand upon me, and thou wilt learn the 
Witch of Endor's power! 



128 "The Shepherd King" 

Saul. 
(X'ing to her.) Then thou art the Witch of Endor? 

Witch. 
What if I am so called ? I do not practice what is for- 
bidden by the King. 

Saul. 
Bring to me the soul of one departed, that I may seek 
council of him and I will make thee rich. 

Witch. 
How do I know that thou wilt not give information 
against me? 

Saul. 
I swear that no harm shall come to thee. 

Witch. 
Thou canst speak the truth; but the other — (In- 
dicating Doeg.) Lies! Lies! Lies! And his word is 
worthless ! 

Saul. 
(To Doeg.) Wait for me at the mouth of the cave. 

Doeg. 
(Starts l.) 

Witch. 
(Follozving him over.) Hear me, ere thou dost depart! 
The lies that thou hast used to gain thy ends will be- 
come the lashes that will drive thee from thy estate ! 
So speaks the Witch of Endor ! Ha ! Ha ! Ha ! 

Doeg. 
{Exits.) 

Witch. 
(Turns; regards Saul intently for a second; then 
points tier finger at him.) Hast thou faith? 



"The Shepherd King" 129 

Saul. 
Faith ! 

Witch. 
(Incanting.) Around thee the shadows are dark, with 
sparks of brightness. O'er thy mind a veil of gloom hath 
rested. Thy life hath been one of turmoil ! 

Saul. 
True ! True ! Go on ! 

Witch. 
Let me learn of thy past, before we seek the future. 
(X's to cauldron.) 

Saul. 
'T'were better for the past to slumber. 'Tis of the 
future I would know. 

Witch. 
Silence ! While the spirits gather about the sacred 
wand. (Bus. of stirring with wand, l.) 

"Come, ye spirits; come ye hither; 
Tell us whence and tell us whither, - 
Out of the darkness — the silence of death, 
Come hither, ye spirits, as when ye had breath." 

(Slight blue flame shows.) So faint they appear that the 
spirit that doth control me can scarcely discern. Ah ! 
What is this? (Starting back.) Their forms come 
erect. (Turns and gazes at Saul; fiercely.) Thou art 
not of common blood. Thou art Saul, the King ! 

Saul. 
How dost thou know? 

Witch. 
The spirits come to thee, straight, as they walked in 
life! And thus they do, only in the presence of Kings! 



13° "The Shepherd King" 

(Pleading.) O King', I have never despised thee, tho' 
thou hast banished me from thy land ! Hast thou sought 
me to wreak punishment upon me ? 

Saul. 

Thou hast my solemn word that no harm shall come 
to thee. I am Saul, King of Israel ! Wretched, deserted 
of God ! Dreams reveal nothing to me ! My kingdom is tot- 
tering beneath my feet ! Our enemy is encamped, even at 
my palace door ! I have come to beg of thee, that thou 
wilt use thy gifts, and bring to me the spirit of one I 
would name ! 

Witch. 

(Rising.) His name? 

Saul. 
Samuel. 

Witch. 
(Bus.) Then let thy mind dwell on his name. Thy 
thought be of thy desires. I invoke. The incense I burn. 
The fumes penetrate the dead souls' sphere, and signals 
to them our desires. Around the wand they gather. 
(Color bus.) Unseen, save by the gifted eye. (Chants.) 

"To this earth worm trembling- here 
Dreaded shadows swift appear ; 
Peace or strife, joy or woe, 
Take thy form, and let him know." 

(Flame bursts forth.) Hark! A voice doth speak! 
(Stares before her as though addressing the unseen.) Be- 
yond the power of mortal call, thou sayest, and cannot 
answer to our will. {Bus. of coming out of trance.) O 
King, the task that thou hast set me is beyond thy ser- 
vant's power! 



"The Shepherd King" 131 

Saul. 
(In passion.) Thou hast lied! Thou hast no power! 
Thou hast imposed upon me ! 

Witch. 
Forbear thy auger, O King, till thou hast heard me. 
The one that thou desired was of holy life. No evil hath 
he ever done. He sits on high and answers the will of 
One! (Indicating above.) 

Saul. 
Aye, true, Samuel, "The asked of God." Impious the 
thought that creatures like us could summon to our need 
so holy a one. Here, woman, take thy gold. (Throzvs 
purse to her.) Practice no more thy unlawful art. The 
King doth leave thee as he came — a forsaken man. 
(Starts to go; pauses; head drops to breast. Mutters 
to himself, Samuel, Samuel; then raises his head as in 
prayer, with deep emotion.) Samuel, thou prophet of 
Israel, from thy secure seat above, look down upon the 
child for whose disobedience thou did'st withdraw thy 
hand, that was my strength. From off my mind the 
cloud hath lifted; weak and helpless now am I. (Kneels.) 
Grant me one word of comfort ; one word of pity ! 
Samuel! Samuel! (Bows head in hands.) 

(Business; A slight pause. A faint smoke 
appears at the r. of Saul.) 

Witch. 
(Startled; utters exclamation; points her finger toward 
smoke.) O King! O King! (Saul raises his head.) 
Canst thou perceive? 

Saul. 
(Raises up; gazes in direction.) I see nothing". 



132 "The Shepherd King" 

Witch. 
Before thee stands a figure that comes through no art 
of mine ! ( Terrified.) 

Saul. 
What form is he of? 

Witch. 
An old man, clothed in white. His face of holy-light. 
His gaze doth rest on thee with pity and with sorrow. 

Saul. 
{Half aside.) Samuel, hast thou come to me? 

Witch. 
He moves from thee. Canst thou see, O King ! There 
he glides, now rests at base of the rock ! (Figure becomes 
distinct.) 'Tis a god come to earth! (In great fear, 
crouches down r., face covered.) 

(Business: Apparition gradually becomes dis- 
tinct, when at full view.) 

Saul. 
Samuel! (Falls down before figure, with hands out- 
stretched in supplication.) 

Samuel. 
Saul, why hast thou disturbed me? 

Saul. 
To seek thy counsel, Prophet of Israel. Since thou hast 
departed, my heart is sick with grief. I am powerless. 

Samuel. 
It is vain of thee to seek counsel of me. Thou hast 
reaped the reward of thy disobedience. Thy rule is o'er. 
Thy dominion doth go to David. Hear me, Saul ! To- 
morrow thy earthly life doth end. Thou and thy sons will 
be with me! Farewell! Farewell! (Vision dissolves.) 



"The Shepherd King" 133 

Saul. 
Samuel ! Samuel ! One question more ! Do not leave 
me ! Gone ! Gone ! I am alone ! Alone ! 

(Li glits out. Change of scene. Or, as Saul sinks to the 
ground, the Witch gets a goblet, comes to him, kneels 
before him.) Drink, O King! It will give thee strength. 
(Picture and change l.) 



Scene II. Exterior of Saul's palace. Palace l. 2, with 
steps leading down in front. At back l. two heavy gates 
supported by buttress. At change of scene trumpet is 
sounded ; guards throw open gates ; Ozem enters through 
gate, accompanied by two soldiers. Simultaneously Eliah 
enters from rear of palace with a dozen of house-guards ; 
comes to c. Ozem and Eliah salute. 

Ozem. 
Thou art to hasten to the eastern w T all with thy men. 
It is our weakest point. There the enemy are gathered 
in great numbers. 

Eliah. 
From whom dost thou bear these commands? 

Ozem. 
Prince Phalti. Since Doeg's death he hath assumed 
command. 

Eliah. 
And I would sooner serve the Prince than Doeg. (Sa- 
lutes, gives order to men; exits. Guards close and fasten 

gates.) ~ 

6 Ozem. 

(Gives order to his men; exits, double 

quick, l. u.) 



134 "The Shepherd King" 

MlCHAL. 

(At head of palace steps, followed by hi\, 
maid, comes quickly down the steps, looks off l. ; calls.) 
Lia ! Lia ! Omez hath returned ! Go thou and tell him I 
would speak with him. (Lia exits l. u.; shouts, battle 
effect, which is heard throughout the act.) Oh, those 
shouts, shouts of agony, and of death; the horror of it 
hath well nigh made me ill. (X'ing again to l.) 

Ozem. 
(Enters with six men; halts them at back; 
comes to about c. ) 

Michal. 
Ozem, what news? Didst thou see David? 

Ozem. 
(Speaking quickly, and zvith military precision.) I de- 
livered thy message to my brother at Engedi three days 
ago. I returned yesterday. David doth make the journey 
on foot and through the woods. He should have arrived 
outside the city's walls last night. I instructed him to 
wait till the morning change of guard, and to enter the 
city by the northern gate where I was on duty. 

• Michal. 
But now the city is besieged by the Philistines ; he can- 
not enter. „ 

Ozem. 

I was ordered away from that post. Prince Phalti was 

placed in command. In my extremity I confided all to 

him. __ 

Michal. 

What did the Prince say? 

Ozem. 
He was greatly pleased, and told me to tell thee "That 
thou had'st saved Israel." 



"The Shepherd King" 135 

MlCHAL. 

I — saved — Israel ! 

OZEM. 

He immediately sent away his soldiers and replaced 
them with those who had served under David. 

MlCHAL. 

I thank thee, Ozem, for what thou hast done. (Ex- 
tending her hand.) 

Ozem. 

Princess! (Kneels before her; then goes up to men; 
guards open gates; lie exits.) 

MlCHAL. 

( ) God .pi Israel ! Guard the man I love and again de- 
liver thy children from their enemy! 

Merab. 

( Entering from palace.) Michal! 

MlCHAL. 

Sister ! (Going to her. ) 

Merab. 
Hath any messenger arrived to bring' us tidings of the 
night ? 

Michal. 
None, dear sister. 

Merab. 
The suspense is terrible ! We know not even if our 
father or brother be alive ! 

Michal. 
If harm had befallen them, news would have been 
brought us. 

Merab. 
Our father did promise that a messenger should be sent 
to us at frequent intervals. 



136 "The Shepherd King" 

MlCHAL. 

Probably no man could be spared. Even our house- 
guards have been summoned to do duty — a thing never 
before heard of. We must be brave, Merab, and pray 
for success this day, we and every woman of Israel. 
(Shouts heard.) 

Merab. 
Hear that great shout ! 

Michal. 
It is the cry of our people — and hath the sound of 
victory ! 

Merab. 
From the house-top the conflict is plainly visible. The 
Philistines have forced our army to the city wall, and out- 
number us greatly. 

Shammah. 
(Knocks heavily on the gates.) 

Michal. 
What is that? 

Shammah. 
(Outside.) Open! Open! 'Tis the King! 

Business: Guards throw open gates. Saul 
stands without, supported by Shammah 
and a soldier. A couple of soldiers in the 
rear — they enter. Saul is in a dazed con- 
dition; his hair disheveled, a broken javelin 
in his hand, a wound across his breast. 

Michal. 
(At the sight of her father, runs to him.) Father! 

Business: They lead him to about c. Merab 
places a seat for him. 



"The Shepherd King" 137 

Shammah. 
We found him wounded. It was with difficulty that 
we did bear him away. 

High Priest. 
(Enters from palace and comes to back of 
Saul l.) 

MlCHAL. 

(Kneeling at the r. of Saul.) Father, open thine eyes. 
It is thy daughter, Michal ! 

Saul. 
(Opening his eyes, and looking about him.) Michal! 
What am I doing here ? I remember ! I must away ! No 
man can be spared ! Come, men ! rally again and at them ! 
( Starts up and sinks to his knees.) O God of Israel ! this 
weakness! (They assist him to seat again.) 

Michal. 
Father, we will assist thee to the house, where thou 
may'st receive the attention thy injuries require. 

Saul. 
Nay, child ; my injuries are more than of flesh. Out there 
Israel is making her last stand. 'Tis but a weak one. 
Despair is in the heart of our people. They no longer 
fight as of old, nor answer to the rallying call of the 
trumpet. (Shouts.) Hear! Hear! Tell me, children; 
did'st thou not hear that shout. Is it not the voice of our 
people ? 

Merab. 
Aye, father; we heard it once before, and thought it 
victory. 

Saul. 
Then it was not the phantasy of my mind. For. as I 
sank to the earth, a great shout arose ; a rider appeared. 



138 "The Shepherd King" 

I saw my men desert me and run toward the new comer, 
and as unconsciousness o'ertook me, I seemed to hear the 
name — David ! 

Michal. 

I pray it be true ! Father, I did send a message to 
David, and did beg him to come. Perhaps even now he 
may be there with our people, leading them again to 
victory. 

Saul. 

(Half aside.) Samuel, thy prophesy is fulfilled. No 
success attends my efforts. David leads Israel to vic- 
tory. Thy words, O Prophet — "To-morrow, thou and 
thy son — (Suddenly remembering.) Jonathan! (To 
Shammah.) Hast thou heard aught of Jonathan? 

Shammah. 
(Coming before Saul; kneels.) O King! Thy son is 
dead ! 

Saul. 
(Utters a smothered cry.) Jonathan! (Covers face 
zvith his hands.) 

Merab. 
(Moves to l., and shows emotion.) 

Michal. 

Jonathan dead! Oh! (Head drops on her fathers 
knee.) 

Saul. 

Weep for thy brother, my daughters, but grieve not for 
me. It is Jehovah's will. I set myself against his 
prophet. This is my punishment. But I resolved King Saul 
should never be taken alive. A messenger ! Shammah, 
thou art his brother; bear him this ring; say it is from 
the King, and that Saul would ask forgiveness of David ! 
Away ! 



"The Shepherd King" 139 

Sham m ah. 
(Exits thro ugh gates.) 

Business: Shouts grow louder, trumpets 
sound ; sound of conMct. 

High Priest. 

King ! let thy servants assist thee to the house. Thou 
dost need the aid of the physician. 

Saul. 

1 am past all aid. Thou holy man, stay by me. Let 
thy prayers intercede for me. (He is led l. by two sol- 
diers, followed by High Priest. Michal and Merab 
start to follow. Saul turns.) Nay; remain and receive 
the news. If it be good, let my daughters bear it to me. 
(Exits l. 2.) 

Michal. 
Lia ! Lia ! Run to a high place on the castle and tell 
me what thou seests of the battle. (Exit Lia ivho reap- 
pears on balcony.) Oh, David, my beloved! come home 
a victor this day, and I ask no more! Alas! my heart is 
full of fear ! Oh, Jonathan ! my brother ! my brother ! 
Jonathan ! ( Weeps. ) 

Lia. 
Dear mistress, it looks like an angel had come in the 
midst of Israel. 

Michal. 
What sayest thou? Looks itjike victory for our sol- 
diers ? Speak quickly ! What seest thou ! 

Lia. 
I see only our own people. There is no enemy in sight. 

Michal. 
Well— well ! 



140 "The Shepherd King" 

Lia. 
Coming over the hill I see a great company, and yonder 
amid a cloud of dust comes a noble soldier on a white 
horse, and all the soldiers cheer him as he rides. 

Shouts: Israel hath triumphed! Praise be to 
Jehovah ! etc. 

Michal. 
Merab ! Dost thou hear? 

Merab. 
It is the cry of victory ! 

Guard. 
( Throws open gates. ) 

Phalti. 
(Enters, followed by a dozen soldiers, all shouting: 
"Israel hath triumphed!") O daughters of Saul! I bear 
glad tidings ! Israel hath conquered ! Our enemy hath 
been put to flight ! 

(Shouts off r. : "Long live David! David!") 

Merab. 
I will go to my father. (Starts.) 

Phalti. 
Tell the King, David hath received his ring, and re- 
turns to serve him as of old. 

Merab. 
(Exits in palace.) 

Michal. 
Oh, the glorious news! (Starts as though to follow 
Merab.) 



"The Shepherd King" 141 

PlIALTI. 

Princess Michal, stay thou and welcome David. When 
Ozem told me that David was to arrive, I gathered to- 
gether all the men who had served under him, and when 
they saw David, with a great cry of joy they rushed 
toward him. Soon he was placed at their head. The 
news spread throughout our ranks. The battle cry became 
"David, the slayer of the Philistine, is with us!" Our 
defeat was turned to victory ! 

{Shouts become louder. David! David! We 

will have no other leader! etc.) 
Business: The trumpets sound. Soldiers who 
came on with Phalti take up the shouts. 
From the palace, enter all extra women, 
waving brandies and singing, "Welcome, 
David." Soldiers come on through gates 
from r. and form semi-circle about r. of 
stage. Great shouting and blasts from in- 
struments as David enters. High Priest 
enters on steps. 

David. 
(Enters on horse. Halts c, facing palace. Raises his 
hand for silence. To armor-bearer by his side.) Convey 
to the King the tidings that his people have again tri- 
umphed over their enemies, the Philistines ; and that 
David, his servant, would do homage to Saul, King of 
Israel! (David dismounts.) 

Omnes. 
Long live David ! David ! 

High Priest. 
King Saul is dead ! 

Omnes. 
(Remove helmets. David kneels.) 



142 "The Shepherd King" 

MlCHAL. 

{Gives cry of sorrow.) 

David. 
(Goes to her, takes her in his arms.) 

High Priest. 
( To Priest. ) Bring forth the crown. Men of Israel ! 
Thy King! Whom shall he be? 

Omnes. 

Long live King David ! God save the King ! We'll have 
no King hut David ! 

Priest. 
(Enters with crozvn, hands it to High Priest. Busi- 
ness. 

(As picture is formed, all take up the song, 
which continues to the end, after curtain 
is down.) 

SLOW CURTAIN. 



JAN 21 1904 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 

III 

020 994 005*A 



